Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain high levels of lycopene, a natural plant pigment with strong antioxidant properties. Antioxidants also help neutralize dangerous free radicals, inflammation, and prevent oxidative damage, which can cause heart disease. Studies show that low blood levels of lycopene may increase the risk of developing stroke and heart attack. It would help to increase your consumption of tomato products and lycopene supplements to reduce blood pressure, endothelial function, and maintain healthy blood lipids. A study showed that one serving of raw tomatoes, or tomato sauce with refined olive oil may reduce blood cholesterol and triglycerides, and increase High density lipoprotein levels.
Studies show that the body absorbs lycopene better from tomato products and cooked tomatoes than fresh tomatoes. Tomatoes increase levels of HDL, which helps keep the heart healthy and protect against stroke and heart disease.
Conclusion
More studies continue to show that the effects of diet on heart disease are strong. Although consuming certain foods make you more susceptible to heart murmurs, consuming some other foods may reduce your risks of developing the condition. Contact your doctor for more information on how certain foods affect your heart health and other aspects such as triglycerides, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure.
Reference:
[1] https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-scoop-on-anthocyanins-89522
[2] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4314-hypertension-high-blood-pressure
[3] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stroke/
[4] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10783-metabolic-syndrome
[5]https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diabetes
[6]https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/supplement-guide-vitamin-k