Did you know that there’s an alternative to the impersonal and hurried healthcare delivery system of today? Concierge Medicine is a system of medicine that is based around getting you the personalized and attentive care that you deserve. Under the care of a concierge physician, you no longer feel like your personal care is out of your control. Additionally, your concierge physician provides you with a number of benefits that will greatly improve your healthcare experience!
As a member of Legacy Medical, you will enjoy the following package of benefits, including unprecedented physician access and superb care on your schedule:
- Kale
Packed full of Vitamin K, this leafy green superfood contains all of the nutrients to allow for proper blood clotting, lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke. It also can improve the function of the cells that line your blood vessels.
Kale is now readily available in any produce market or grocery store. Remember to thoroughly wash before you eat/cook. You can either steam, stir-fry, or even eat raw in salads. This is a leafy green that you don’t want your diet to be without!
- Oatmeal
One of the healthier breakfast options, oatmeal is the perfect way to start your day. First, it is filling, and prevents any kind of snack cravings throughout your day, keeping your diet clean and on track for a healthy heart!
Some more direct benefits include: helping keep blood sugar levels stable over time and lowering the bad cholesterol, LDL.
- Blueberries
These berries, high in antioxidants, contain anthocyanins, which help the blood vessels.
And like Oatmeal, blueberries contain fiber, which is great for reducing cholesterol (LDL). Try a blueberry/oatmeal combo for extra benefits!
- Avocados
There’s such thing as healthy fats. And avocados, are the mascot for healthy, monounsaturated fats. These fats are known to reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and also the risk of heart disease.
They are also rich in potassium, which is an essential nutrient for heart health.
- Salmon
Another source of healthy fats, Salmon contains Omega-3s. These fats aid in lower blood pressure and also reduce the risk of heart rhythm disorder.
Salmon has many other health benefits as well, it can help lower triglycerides and lower inflammation. The American Heart Association recommends two servings of salmon a week. Sounds like a lot, but your body will be thanking you!
- Walnuts
Still in the “good fats” category, nuts like walnuts are also packed with Omega-3s. These healthy nuts can lower your cholesterol and protect against inflammation in the arteries.
Walnuts also contain plant sterols and fiber, which help to replace the bad fats in your diet.
- Black Beans
Black Beans are not only full of protein, but they also contain folate, antioxidants and magnesium. All of these nutrients help to lower blood pressure.
The fiber in the beans also helps to control cholesterol and blood sugar levels. So when you have the choice of: black beans or pinto, go with black beans!
- Dark Chocolate
You’re probably in disbelieve. “A treat so sweet can’t be healthy for my heart!” you say. Well, it is! But here’s the catch – we’re not talking about upping your Kit-Kat intake. The type of chocolate that possesses superfood qualities is the high quality dark chocolate that contains 70% or more cacao.
This superfood is rich in flavonoid antioxidants which can boost heart health and lower your risk of heart disease. Don’t go choco-crazy. Moderation is key!
- Garlic
Garlic is one of the best anti-inflammatory foods you can include in your diet. It contains allicin, which can reduce blood pressure and bad cholesterol. It can also reduce platelet buildup, which greatly reduces your chances of blood clots or stroke.
A tip is to crush up the garlic and let sit before cooking to allow for allicin build-up.
- Green Tea
Green Tea is widely known as one of the most beneficial teas, containing many antioxidants and possesses fat-burning properties. The antioxidants that are present, prevent cellular damage and reduce inflammation. Green tea can also reduce blood pressure, triglycerides and LDL.
There’s many more foods/superfoods that you can include in your diet to make for a healthier heart and prevent heart issues down the road. If you have any questions regarding proper nutrition, please call us at our office and speak with our concierge doctor!