Our island is home to many highly nutritious foods that can help us improve our overall heart health. Some of these locally-grown and available foods can be classified as superfoods! Superfoods have high nutrient content and are associated with a lower risk of diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. Research shows that superfoods have a variety of benefits for the human body.

1. Ahi

Tuna is known for being lean with relatively high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. These omega-3 acids may help to reduce the level of omega-6 fatty acids and LDL cholesterol that can accumulate inside the arteries of the heart. It is also an excellent source of vitamin B12, an essential vitamin needed to make DNA. Vitamin B12 also helps you to form new red blood cells and prevent the development of anemia.

2. Avocado

Avocados are prolific in Hawaii and they are a great source of vitamins C, E, K, and B6, as well as riboflavin, niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, and potassium. They also provide lutein, beta carotene, and omega-3 fatty acids.

3. Dark Leafy Greens

Kale, bok choy, butter lettuce and salad greens are all grown locally throughout Hawaii. Not only are these greens rich in nutrients, vitamins and minerals, they are especially important in providing a B vitamin called folate that is helpful for heart disease prevention.

4. Okinawan Sweet Potato

Okinawan sweet potatoes are especially prized for their high antioxidant levels which help to guard against cardiovascular disease and cancer. The antioxidant known as anthocyanin is the pigment which is responsible for their brilliant purple color. Sweet potatoes of all varieties are high in vitamin A, vitamin C and manganese. They are also a good source of copper, dietary fiber, vitamin B6, potassium and iron.

5. Kalo/Taro

Taro root and its edible leaves are packed with antioxidants. Quercetin, which comes from the vegetable’s purple pigment, is a powerful antioxidant that protects your body from free radicals. Taro root also contains high levels of potassium, vitamins C, B6 and E, manganese, copper, phosphorus and folate.

6. Mango

Here are some more reasons to love this revered fruit. Mangoes pack more than 20 vitamins and minerals, including high doses of vitamins A and C. They are also a good source of folate and fiber.