Heart disease kills millions of people every year. But the good news is, deaths due to the disease have dropped significantly in recent years. Even better, we now have a better understanding on how to prevent cardiovascular diseases.

A healthy lifestyle is key to keeping our heart healthy. Eating the following superfoods can also help.

 Salmon

Salmon and other fishes like sardines and mackerel are some of the best foods for the heart. These fatty fishes contain omega-3 fatty acids that are known to lower the risk of having an irregular heart beat and minimize plaque build-up in the arteries. The American Heart Association says eating fatty fish twice a week is ideal.

Oatmeal

The underrated oatmeal is high in soluble fiber, which helps it lower cholesterol. It acts as a sponge that soaks up the cholesterol so it is not absorbed in the bloodstream. However, doctors advise patients to avoid the instant ones which contain sugar and go for the old-fashioned or quick-cooking oatmeals.

Berries

Blueberries, strawberries and the rest of the berries are perfect for the heart. One study recommends women from25 to 42 to ingest more than three servings of berries a week. Berries are full of antioxidants that can lower blood pressure and dilate blood vessels.

 Dark Chocolate

Chocolates can now literally take heart as chocolates have been deemed good for the heart, as long as it's dark. A daily consumption of chocolate can actually reduce strokes and nonfatal heart attacks. Dark chocolate has flavonoids that can help lower blood pressure and minimize clotting.

Soy

Soy products, like soy milk and tofu, are a good way to protect the heart and to add protein to one's diet. Soy products have high levels of polyunsaturated fats, fibers and vitamins. It's good for lowering the blood pressure, especially if one's diet is high in refined carbohydrates.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are chockfull of heart-healthy potassium and are a good source of lycopene. This antioxidant helps get rid of bad cholesterol and helps lower the risk of heart attacks. Tomatoes are also very low in sugar and calories.

Nuts

Nuts contain fiber that's good for the heart. They also contain vitamin E which lowers cholesterol. Some nuts are also high in omega-3 fatty acids. It's a good idea to snack on nuts like almonds, pistachios, peanuts and walnuts, as long as they don't have a lot of salt.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Olive oil is the secret weapon of Mediterranean culture, and the reason why people who live in that region are healthier than their western counterparts. Olive oil is a great source of monounsaturated fats, which lowers blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Aside from the oil, the olive itself is a superfood, so try to sneak some into your salad.

 Green Tea

Long known to be a super food by Asians, green tea is starting to grow in popularity in the west. Studies have shown that drinking four or more cups of green tea a day reduces the risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease by as much as 20%. The antioxidant catechins are believed to be the reason for its health benefit.

Coffee

People might be surprised to see coffee on this list but coffee, when consumed in the right amounts, can keep the heart healthy. A study shows that drinking two cups of coffee a day can lower the risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease by 30%.