* According to research in the journal, Circulation, daily consumption of processed meats like bacon can increase the risk of heart disease by 42 percent and [[diabetes]] by 19 percent.
== Home remedies ==
* The herb of hawthorn (Crataegus)is considered to be potent heart tonic. The herb is believed to have direct beneficial effects on the functioning and pumping of the heart. If used in proper dosage, it dilates the blood vessels and hence can be prescribed as potent antihypertensive herb. The herb is labeled as ‘food for the heart’ because of its property of improving the blood flow to the heart through coronary arteries.
* The Allium family of vegetables, which includes [[onions]], garlic, leeks and scallions, are known to have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular and immune systems, as well as anti-diabetic and anti-cancer effects.
* More than a decade of scientific evidence shows that incorporating [[walnut]] in a healthy diet reduces the risk of heart disease by improving blood vessel elasticity and plaque accumulation.