We know it, the food plays a fundamental role in cardiovascular health. Among the most common risk factors are smoking, high blood pressurediabetes, obesity or even a diet rich in saturated fats and salt. To combat this last risk factor, many specialists remind us that every action counts.
But in everyday life, it can be difficult to be aware of the risk of certain habits, particularly when it comes to snacking. Also, to help limit processed foods and favor a diet that is beneficial for the heart, Dr. Mustali Dohadwala, cardiologist at Heartsafe, a private clinic located in Boston (United States), list near the newspaper Business Insider, snacks to replace sweets and other sweets.
Heart-healthy snacks: foods recommended by this cardiologist
When faced with a craving, meaning an irrepressible urge to eat, it’s not uncommon to turn to foods high in salt and saturated fat, such as potato chips. But these are linked to an increased risk of heart disease. So, Dr. Mustali Dohadwala advises replacing chips with nutssuch as the almonds or pistachios. “Nuts, rather than fried snacks, are an excellent source of protein and are good for satisfying your appetite.”he explains to Business Insider.
What about sugar cravings? Cardiologist advises favor fruits. “Fruits can provide some sweetness as well as vitamins, micronutrients and fibers for a healthier choice”points out Dr. Dohadwala. We can then turn to bananas (easy to eat and transport) or apples. But we can also take a bag of berries like blueberries or strawberries. “Berries are famous for their natural compounds, polyphenols, which have immense antioxidant power to keep cells healthy.”he emphasizes to Business Insider.
Food cravings: why do we sometimes have irresistible urges to eat?
Questioned in March 2023 on the subject by the DailyMailnutritionist Shona Wilkinson explained that “If you crave salty foods, it may mean your sodium levels are too low“. According to her, this low dosage can be explained by a “dehydration“, and “physical exercise” or even by the “alcohol consumption“. Another explanationput forward by Dr Hoosna Haque in an interview given to the website of New-York Presbyterian Hospital, food cravings may occur “due to fluctuating hormone levels,” especially during menstruation.
In addition, a study published in the review Nature Communications believed that food cravings may have neurological causes. Indeed, according to this research, hyperactive neurons in an area of the brain may stimulate the desire to eat fatty foodseven without feeling hungry.
So, how can you learn to resist your food cravings? Dietician-nutritionist Sophie Janvier suggests, in particular, in the book The gentle method for eating better (ed. Leduc), the RAS methodthat corresponds to “Breathe, Wait, Savor”. It’s about learning to resist your food cravings, or giving in. “in conscience” if we finally give in and savor this sweet (or salty) pleasure.
Sources :
- Cut back on processed foods with these 2 heart-healthy snacks, according to a cardiologist – Business Insider (01/07/2024)
- From cake to crisps and chocolate: Here’s what your food cravings ACTUALLY mean, according to experts – DailyMail 21/03/2024
- What To Eat During Your Period: Foods That Help Reduce Cramps and Foods To Avoid – New-York Presbyterian Hospital – 12/04/2023
- Control of feeding by a bottom-up midbrain-subthalamic pathway – Nature Communications Mars 2024
