5 heart-healthy breakfast choices for people with cardiovascular disease
Sandy Verma July 31, 2025 05:25 PM

According to Dr. Nguyen Anh Duy Tung from Nutrihome Nutrition Center, individuals with cardiovascular disease should prioritize breakfasts that are low in LDL (bad cholesterol), sodium, and saturated fats. A well-balanced morning meal can help stabilize blood sugar and blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart- complications throughout the day.

Here are five heart-friendly breakfast options recommended by Dr. Tung:

1. Whole oats

Oats are rich in beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that helps reduce cholesterol absorption in the intestines and lower blood lipid levels. They also support blood sugar regulation and promote satiety.

For a heart-healthy breakfast, cook oats with water or unsweetened plant-based milk, and top with chia seeds or fresh fruits for added nutrition.

A bowl of cooked oats. Illustration photo by Pexels

2. Whole grain bread

High in fiber, B vitamins, magnesium, and potassium, whole grain bread supports blood pressure regulation, helps relax blood vessels, and protects vascular health. With a lower glycemic index than white bread, it also reduces the metabolic strain on the heart and limits fat buildup in arteries.

3. Unsweetened plant-based milk

Cow milk alternatives such as almond, soy, or walnut milk offer unsaturated fats beneficial for the heart. These beverages are also rich in vitamin E, phytosterols, and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel function. It is best to choose unsweetened and additive-free varieties to avoid spikes in blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

4. Boiled eggs

Boiled eggs are a good source of high-quality protein, helping maintain muscle mass without triggering insulin spikes in the morning. They also contain lecithin, which supports fat metabolism. However, those with lipid disorders should limit their intake to three to four eggs per week and avoid fried or butter-enriched preparations.

5. Fresh fruits

Fruits such as apples, bananas, kiwis, and blueberries provide fiber, potassium, and polyphenol antioxidants that help lower blood pressure, combat oxidative stress, and improve overall heart function. Eating whole fruits is preferable to drinking fruit juice, as it preserves natural fiber and helps prevent blood sugar spikes.

Dr. Tung advises cardiac patients to steer clear of oil-rich, sugar-high, and processed breakfast items like fried sticky rice, meat-filled sandwiches, instant noodles, and pastries. Instead, they should opt for lighter meals that are low in sodium and rich in fiber and healthy fats to support stable blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

He also emphasizes the importance of regular health checkups, adhering to prescribed medications, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco. For additional support, he recommends natural supplements like GDL-5—an extract from South American sugarcane wax—which may help lower blood lipid levels, reduce total cholesterol, and decrease the risk of atherosclerosis.

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