11. Apples
Apples are rich in a flavonoid called quercetin. Some studies suggest that quercetin in apples may lower the risk of heart disease in some people.
In a 2016 study, researchers analyzed data from 1,052 females over the age of 70 and found that higher apple consumption was associated with a lower risk of aortic calcification.
Aortic calcification is the build-up of calcium deposits in one of the major blood vessels to the heart, called the aorta. It is commonly seen when atherosclerosis is widespread and generally indicates a high risk of heart attack and stroke.
12. Cranberries
Research suggests that anthocyanins in cranberries may boost heart health by improving vascular function and lowering cholesterol.
In a study published in 2015, scientists reported that cranberry juice consumed daily for eight weeks significantly reduced diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number in a blood pressure reading).16
High diastolic pressure generally occurs when there is a condition affecting the aorta. This includes problems like aortic stenosis, a type of heart valve disease.
It was also reported that cranberry juice reduced a substance known as C-reactive protein produced by the body in response to inflammation. This suggests that cranberry juice has anti-inflammatory effects.
