Heart attack has become a major health problem in today's time. It is mainly related to lifestyle and diet. We believe that eating habits have a big impact on heart health. Let us know from Dr. Bimal Chhajer (Former Consultant - AIIMS and Director Saaol Heart Center, New Delhi) which diet, veg or non-veg, reduces the risk of heart attack?

1. Vegetarian diet-

Dr. Bimal Chhajer said that vegetarian diet reduces the risk of heart attack. The reason for this is that this diet contains less amount of fats which are harmful for the heart.

• Less saturated fats:

Vegetarian diets mostly consist of fruits, vegetables and nuts, which are very low in saturated fats. Saturated fats are harmful for heart health.

• Rich in fiber:

Vegetarian foods are high in fibre, such as vegetables and fruits. Fibre takes time to digest and helps remove bad cholesterol (LDL) from the body.

• Minimally processed foods:

If processed food is consumed less in vegetarian diet then it is better for heart health.

Non-veg diet

Dr. S.S. Siba (Cardiologist and Director Siba Medical Center) said that non-veg diet includes meat, fish, eggs. Some people believe that non-veg provides protein, but it also affects the health of the heart.

• Are high in saturated fats –

Most non-veg foods contain saturated fats, which increase cholesterol in the blood, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease.

• Low fiber:

Non-veg diet lacks fiber, which helps in removing bad cholesterol from the body.

• Omega-3 fats:

Although eating fish provides omega-3 fats, which are beneficial for heart health, eating more red meat instead of fish can increase the risk.

Vegetarian diet reduces the risk of heart attack as compared to non-vegetarian diet. Vegetarian diet is low in saturated fats, high in fiber and low in processed food. If you want to keep your heart healthy, try to include vegetables, fruits, pulses and nuts in your diet.