Fish oil is one of the best foods for the heart. It contains eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and decosahexaenoic acid (DHA), two forms of omega-3 fatty acids. According to a large number of clinical trails, EPA and DHA are beneficial for people suffering from cardiovascular diseases. According to the American Heart Association, risk of heart diseases can be diminished by consuming fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, herring, mackerel, albacore tuna or lake trout at least twice a week. By reducing the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or the bad cholesterol and triglycerides and raising the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or the good cholesterol in the blood, omega-3 fatty acids help to normalize the lipid profile of people suffering from cardiovascular diseases. The healthy fat content in the blood prevents progression of atherosclerosis or hardening and narrowing of the coronary arteries that occurs owing to fat build-up in the blood vessels. People with cardiovascular disease can also meet their omega-3 fatty acid requirement from fish oil supplements.

If you are a vegetarian or dislike the fishy burp that may occur following fish oil supplement intake, you can consume flaxseed. Flaxseed contains alpha linolenic acid (ALA), a form of omega-3 fat. It can cause modest reduction in the overall cholesterol level. Studies suggest that a diet rich in ALA can reduce the risk of a fatal heart attack in people diagnosed with a cardiovascular disease. You can take two to four tablespoons of flaxseeds daily. However, flaxseeds are not recommended for women with hormone-sensitive cancers and men with prostate cancer. A study has found a direct association between macular degeneration and ALA rich diet.

The sulfur containing compounds in garlic protect the coronary arteries from oxidative stress and inflammation, which are frequently linked to cardiovascular diseases. The anti-clotting effect of a compound called ajoene reduces the risk of heart attacks. In addition, garlic contains several other heart friendly components such as vitamins B6 and C, manganese and selenium. Progression of atherosclerosis can be slowed down by consuming 900mg of garlic supplement daily. Garlic is safe and can be consumed for a prolonged period. However, high doses of garlic supplement might interact with anticoagulants.

People with cardiovascular disease should include oats in their daily diet. Oat is one of the richest sources of dietary fibers. By binding with the fats in the digestive tract, fibers help to eliminate them from the body through defecation. Oats also prevent oxidation of LDL cholesterol, thereby preventing hardening of the LDL cholesterol in the coronary arteries. This antioxidant property of oats is attributed to compounds called avenanthramides.

Blond psyllium, commonly used for treating constipation, is also beneficial for the heart. The blond psyllium seed husk is a rich source of dietary fiber. Consuming 10 to 12 grams of the seed husk causes modest reduction in the LDL cholesterol level. Bond psyllium is most effective when taken with meals. It is well tolerated when taken in recommended doses with sufficient water.

Coenzyme q10 is a vitamin-like substance, essential for metabolic processes of the body. Although coenzyme q10 occurs naturally in the human body, its level tends to fall with age. The function of the heart in people with cardiovascular disease can be improved with coenzyme q10 supplements. It can reduce angina or chest pain and decrease the risk of fatal heart attacks. Coenzyme q10 deficiency is linked to high blood cholesterol level. In cardiovascular disease patients on statins, coenzyme q10 supplements can reduce muscle pain, a common side effect of prolonged statin intake. Other than occasional stomach upsets, coenzyme q10 supplements are usually well tolerated.

Sterols and stanols are plant compounds that are structurally similar to cholesterol. They inhibit absorption of cholesterol in the gut, thereby reducing the cholesterol level in the blood, and slowing down progression of atherosclerosis in people diagnosed with cardiovascular disease. Sterols and stanols are found in several fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Two to three grams of sterols should be consumed daily.