February is American Heart Month, a time when all people can focus on their cardiovascular health. It is also the month of Valentine’s Day which emphasizes another aspect of the heart. For these reasons, I have created this Heart Beet Soup recipe. It is a beautiful color and filled with nutrients that will contribute to a healthy heart. Below you can read about the benefits of the ingredients in the recipe. Enjoy.
Since inflammation is a strong component in heart disease, the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric make it a great addition to any heart healthy diet. Turmeric may reverse steps in the heart disease process by improving the function of the lining of your blood vessels. This helps regulate your blood pressure, blood clotting and other factors vital to heart health.
Parsnips are rich in potassium, a mineral that helps your heart function and balances your blood pressure. The high fiber content of parsnips may also help maintain reduced blood cholesterol levels. In addition, parsnips provide potassium and vitamin C and B6/Folate and boast anti-inflammatory properties.
Onions contain organic sulfur compounds. These compounds are the reason why onions have such a sharp, strong taste and smell. Organic sulfur compounds help reduce the level of cholesterol in your body and may also help break down blood clots, lowering your risk for heart disease and stroke. Onions also contain antioxidants and compounds that fight inflammation, decrease triglycerides, and reduce cholesterol levels — all of which may lower heart disease risk. Their potent anti-inflammatory properties may also help reduce high blood pressure and protect against blood clots.
Beets contain a high concentration of nitrates, which can help lower your blood pressure levels. This may lead to a reduced risk of heart disease. Beets can also reduce signs of inflammation in blood vessels that are known to be increased in people with coronary heart disease.
Dietary nitrates in fennel seeds have vasodilatory and vasoprotective properties. Because of this, they can help lower blood pressure and protect the heart.
Lemon contains potassium, which benefits heart health. Lemon contains antioxidants such as Hesperidin, Diosmin, and Eriocitrin, which reduce the risk factors for heart disease and keeps arteries healthy.