A cardiologist reveals which fruit is best for your heart: “It reduces the risk of a heart attack”

“Neither apple nor avocado.” This is how cardiologist Magdalena Perello begins to talk about the best foods that will take care of our heart. This medical and communicative woman, based in Menorca, gives the best advice on cardiovascular health on her social networks. His interesting videos have already earned him more than 40,000 followers on Instagram, in which he talks about the importance of sleep or teaches how to measure blood pressure correctly. But the one that has generated the most interest is the one that reveals what science says is the best fruit for the heart: blueberries.

Dr. Perello explains a scientific article published in the prestigious journal Circulation that outlines the many benefits of blueberries. “Regular consumption of blueberries, three servings per week, has been observed to reduce the risk of heart attack by 32%,” he elaborates.

The reason blueberries are so beneficial for cardiovascular health is that they contain anthocyanins, a powerful antioxidant that can improve the elasticity of the arteries and thereby reduce inflammation.

Additionally, blueberries help “control blood pressure by releasing nitric oxide, a molecule that relaxes blood vessels,” explains Perello. “They are also beneficial for regulating cholesterol levels, lowering LDL or bad cholesterol. Therefore, blueberries are very good for the heart, concludes the cardiologist.

How many blueberries do you need to eat to be beneficial?

The doctor herself says the minimum recommended dose is half a cup, 75 to 100 grams, although some studies raise this amount to a full cup, 150 to 200 grams. It also details that the most beneficial types are blueberries or wild blueberries (Vaccinium coryfolia or Vaccinium angustifolia) and can be consumed either fresh or frozen.