Fast Weight Loss Diets That Are Good For The Heart

Weight loss and heart health go hand in hand; healthy eating leads to weight loss, and weight loss leads to a healthier heart and body. Some foods, however, not only are good for fast weight loss, but also have minerals and nutrients that are excellent for a healthy heart. Fiber, omega-3s and certain chemicals, for example, pack a double punch when it comes to weight loss and heart health. Foods that contain high levels of these ingredients should be included in any heart-healthy weight loss diet.

Omega-3s

Omega-3 fatty acids are a fat that actually may help you lose weight, in addition to being very good for heart and brain function. The American Heart Association recommends that you eat fish high in omega-3--such as tuna, salmon and sardines--at least twice a week. Omega-3s are thought to reduce inflammation and subsequently prevent disease, including heart disease. What's more, omega-3s are believed to aid in weight loss by speeding metabolism and lowering cholesterol. In addition to fish, omega-3s are found in some nuts and oils, such as walnuts and olive oil. Taking fish oil supplements may help you lose weight more quickly, as they give you the fat-burning advantage without as many calories as in some omega-3 foods. This also will help you avoid the higher salt content in some fish dishes, which can hinder quick weight loss by causing you to retain water.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are nutritional powerhouses, with phytochemicals and nutrients that are thought to help fight heart disease. In addition to these nutrients, most fruits and veggies are low-calorie and packed with fiber, which helps keep you feeling fuller longer. In fact, some vegetables, such as celery, actually count as "negative calories" because they burn more calories in digestion than they contain. Eating a diet that consists mainly of fruits and veggies is a commonly used quick "detox diet"--users claim to be able to lose up to 10 pounds in one week. What's more, citrus, apples, garlic and soybeans are said to actually help flush fat out of your system for fast weight loss. Other fruits and vegetables that are particularly heart-healthy and good for weight loss are blueberries, spinach, goji berries, pomegranates and avocado.

Whole Grains

Whole grains, like vegetables, contain a large amount of fiber. In moderation, whole grains promote quick weight loss because they flush out your digestive tract thanks to the fiber, which can reduce water weight and bloating and help you lose up to several pounds in a short period of time. Eating whole grains also is important for weight loss because, as mentioned, fiber keeps you feeling fuller longer, regulates blood sugar levels and digestion and may prevent the body from absorbing fat during digestion. This, in turn, helps with heart health. Whole grains like oats have been proved to lower cholesterol, ultimately preventing heart problems.