World Heart Day, observed annually on September 29, serves as a reminder of the importance of heart health. Each year on this day, healthcare providers, government bodies, and international organizations come together to raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and promote actions to prevent, detect, and manage these conditions. In recent years, India has experienced a concerning rise in CVD cases. A recent study involving 65,562 Indian adults aged 45 and above found 29.4% self-reported prevalence of diagnosed cardiovascular diseases, highlighting urgent public health concerns and the need for targeted awareness and prevention programs. One effective way to support heart health is by incorporating heart-healthy foods like almonds into our daily diet.Almonds are a powerful ally in the fight against heart disease. With 15 essential nutrients, including protein, healthy fats, zinc, dietary fiber, magnesium, and potassium, almonds are well-known for their heart-friendly benefits. Regularly consuming a handful of almonds can help lower total and LDL cholesterol levels, as well as reduce heart-damaging inflammation, making them an excellent choice for supporting cardiovascular health.A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that a daily snack of 42 grams of almonds, consumed as part of an overall healthy diet, improved several heart disease risk factors. Snacking on almonds reduced central adiposity (belly fat) and waist circumference—well-established risk factors for heart disease.Therefore, incorporating a handful of almonds into the daily well-balanced diet is a beneficial habit for keeping the heart healthy and managing cholesterol levels. The best part is that almonds are extremely versatile and nutritious in any form, making them a convenient snack option at any time of the day.Commenting on World Heart Day, Bollywood Actress, Soha Ali Khan said, “Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet and staying active are essential for heart health—something I prioritize for both me and my family. I’m always mindful of our food choices, making sure we limit junk food and choose healthier options like almonds. I rely on almonds in my daily routine; they keep me full longer and help me avoid unhealthy snacks. I also make it a point to stay active with a variety of workouts, including yoga, pilates, and strength training, to support my heart health.”Sharing her thoughts on the World Heart Day, Popular South Indian Actress, Shriya Saran said, “On this day, I encourage everyone to prioritize heart health by making mindful choices in their daily lives. As someone who is health-conscious, I focus on making nutritious choices for my meals and consciously incorporate heart-healthy snacks like almonds into my diet. Almonds are my go-to snack as they provide essential nutrients such as protein and dietary fiber, and support overall heart health and well-being.”Dr. Rohini Patil, MBBS and Nutritionist said, “It’s crucial to recognize how our dietary and lifestyle choices impact heart health. Unhealthy eating habits, high stress levels, lack of sleep, and sedentary lifestyles are all factors that can contribute to obesity, heart problems, and diabetes. As a physician and nutritionist, I recommend incorporating regular physical activity and a balanced diet to support a healthy heart. Swapping unhealthy foods for heart-healthy options like almonds, seasonal fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can make a significant difference. Almonds, are beneficial for heart health, as they help lower LDL and total cholesterol levels when included in a balanced diet.”Sheela Krishnaswamy, Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, said, “India has seen a significant rise in heart attack cases in recent years, which clearly highlights the need to shift away from the current lifestyle to a healthier, more balanced one. Factors like adequate sleep and stress management play a vital role in maintaining heart health, with a particular emphasis on diet. Including almonds in your diet may help lower total and LDL cholesterol, as well as reduce heart-damaging inflammation, which are all essential for keeping the heart healthy. These powerhouse nuts also contain 15 essential nutrients that support the body’s overall functioning and well-being.”Ritika Samaddar, Regional Head-Dietetics, Max Healthcare – Delhi, said, “Snacking is a common practice in India, but many people choose unhealthy options that can harm their heart and body. Poor snacking habits can raise cholesterol, increase blood pressure, and lead to weight gain. It’s essential to be mindful of what we eat. Instead of reaching for fried or oily snacks, a handful of almonds offers a nutritious and heart-healthy alternative. The recently released dietary guidelines for Indians by Indian Council of Medical Research, National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN) also recommend regular consumption of nuts like almonds as part of a balanced diet. So, this World Heart Day, I encourage everyone to commit to a healthy heart by making smarter food choices.”Popular South Indian Actress, Vani Bhojan said, “For me, a healthy body goes beyond just the outer appearance; it’s about internal well-being too. I always plan my meals in advance, ensuring they include nutritious foods like almonds, which support health from the inside out. Almonds are a part of my diet because they’re packed with essential nutrients that help control blood sugar, lower cholesterol levels, and manage weight. Alongside a balanced diet, I also practice mindfulness and manage stress through yoga, both of which are essential for maintaining heart health and overall wellness.”This World Heart Day let’s pledge to build a healthy body and a stronger heart by making mindful choices. Embrace nutritious foods like almonds, stay active, and prioritize overall well-being.
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