Yes, olive oil is generally considered excellent for heart patients because its monounsaturated fats (MUFAs) and antioxidants help lower "bad" LDL cholesterol, reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and decrease the risk of heart disease, especially when replacing saturated fats, but moderation is key. It's a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, linked to better heart outcomes, though some sources suggest plant-based diets without oil might be even better for some, and it should be used in moderation with blood pressure medications.
A study published Jan. 18, 2022, in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that the overall and cause-specific risks of death were lower in women and men consuming higher levels of olive oil as opposed to butter, margarine, mayonnaise, and dairy fat.
Olive oil is safe and beneficial for most people. However, some individuals might need to be cautious. People with sensitive stomachs or conditions like IBS might find that large amounts of oil can trigger digestive issues, like diarrhea or stomach cramps. Also, anyone with a rare allergy to olives should avoid it.
Cardiologists generally advise avoiding processed meats, sugary drinks and sweets, and foods high in trans fats and sodium, like most fried foods and salty snacks, because they raise bad cholesterol, blood pressure, and inflammation, significantly increasing heart disease risk. Focusing on whole foods and limiting these culprits is key for heart health.
In this context, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), the most representative component of this diet, seems to be relevant in lowering the incidence of cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction and stroke.
When choosing a cooking oil, it's best to choose an oil high in poly and/or mono-unsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy fats derived foods such as olives, seeds, nuts and vegetables. Olive oil, which is high in monounsaturated fats, is a particularly beneficial choice for heart health.
Among foods that contribute to clogged arteries are:
Heart-healthy drinks (other than water)
A buildup of fatty substances in the arteries, called atherosclerosis, is the most common cause of coronary artery disease. Risk factors include an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, obesity, and smoking. Healthy-lifestyle choices can help lower the risk of atherosclerosis.
When Not To Use Olive Oil
People are taking olive oil before bed for potential benefits like improved digestion, better sleep (by boosting melatonin/serotonin), reduced inflammation, heart health, and promoting satiety for weight management, leveraging its healthy fats and polyphenols. It's a growing wellness trend, particularly in Mediterranean cultures, to enhance overall vitality and support natural bodily repair overnight.
There are three main enemies of extra virgin olive oil: light, heat, and oxygen. Any of these factors could affect the olive oil during production (and post-production), causing it to have some kind of sensorial defects.
25 Best Foods for Heart Health, According to Cardiologists
High in Calories: One tablespoon has around 120 calories and can contribute to high-calorie intake. Be sure to measure each serving for an accurate calorie count. Digestive Issues: Some may experience mild laxative effects from consuming olive oil.
EVOO also enhances endothelial function, reduces arterial stiffness, and lowers markers like CRP and oxidized LDL, preventing atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease.
Cardiologists we talked to say green tea benefits heart health in several key ways. Dr. Leonard Pianko, MD, FACC, a cardiologist with Aventura, reveals that one reason why green tea is good for cardiovascular health is that it's high in antioxidants.
What is the best fruit for the heart? While all fruits benefit heart health, berries and avocados are particularly great for their antioxidants and healthy fats.
Top Foods Cardiologists Want You to Avoid for Heart Health
Exercise Regularly
Physical workout is the foundation of non-surgical heart blockage treatment. Plan to start aerobic activities such as brisk walking, swimming, and cycling at least 2-3 hours a week. Add resistance training to your routine to strengthen the heart and muscles.
“Smoking is one of the most harmful things people can do to themselves,” Dr. Maniar says. Blood flow drops, slashing oxygen that fuels the heart, which compensates by spiking blood pressure, heart rate and rhythm, and can lead to hardened and narrowed arteries and blood clots causing cardiovascular disease.
To remove cholesterol from your body, adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle by eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats (like olive oil, nuts, and fish) while reducing saturated/trans fats (fatty meats, fried foods, baked goods) and sugar; get regular exercise (30 mins most days); quit smoking; maintain a healthy weight; and limit alcohol, as these changes boost good HDL cholesterol and lower bad LDL cholesterol, with medication sometimes needed for stubborn cases.
Oatmeal, oat bran and high-fiber foods
Oatmeal has soluble fiber, which reduces your low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, the "bad" cholesterol. Soluble fiber is also found in such foods as kidney beans, Brussels sprouts, apples and pears.