Taking care of your body should be important to everyone, but unfortunately, some people don't take their health seriously until there is a medical event or their doctor tells them they need to start paying attention and making lifestyle changes. For many aging people, an issue with their heart is found. While you should certainly follow your physician's recommendations, the foods you eat as well as seeking out the advice of a health food professional for heart-healthy supplements can support your traditional therapies. Here are four foods to add to your diet:

Salmon

Many fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids as well as selenium. Both are good not only for your heart but your brain as well. Selenium is a trace mineral plays a role in preventing cell damage. Prepare wild-caught salmon or fresh sardines baked, broiled, or grilled with olive oil, and serve with heart-healthy broccoli and a yam.

Brussels Sprouts

If these miniature green cabbages trigger childhood nightmares of sitting at the table until you finished them, have no fear. Rather than boiling them until they are mushy like dear old Mom used to, try roasting them with sea salt, olive oil, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. They are packed with vitamins and help to reduce inflammation in the body, which is good for your blood vessels and cardiovascular system in general.

Apples

Everyone has heard the old adage "an apple a day keeps the doctor away." Come to find out, that may not just be a myth. Apples contain pectin, which has been found to block cholesterol as well as high amounts of fiber, which serves to "scrub" the cholesterol away, thus reducing your bad cholesterol. This, in turn, improves your heart function. Eat with the skin for the maximum benefit. Oranges and grapefruits also contain pectin as well as high amounts of Vitamin C, which helps guard against strokes.

Avocado

An avocado is full of the "good fats" that help minimize the bad fat in cholesterol. They are great on salads, sandwiches, or filled with an albacore tuna salad. They are high in calories, however, so stick to one or two servings a week.

Lastly, don't forget to visit your local health food store and consult with an expert. There are many heart supplements that contain compounds, vitamins, and minerals that may reduce your reliance on pharmaceuticals and work with your improved eating and lifestyle habits.