There is nothing more thrilling than summer’s arrival. We can run around outside while basking in the sun—and let’s not forget the delicious food that awaits. Summer brings seasonal-specific dishes, fruits, and vegetables that anyone will love chowing down on. And you can actually improve your cardiovascular health while you eat; here are the top foods to try this summer.

Watermelon

Of course, you were likely expecting to see watermelon on our list—it’s hard to imagine summer without picturing a juicy slice of this fruit. Watermelon is jam-packed with nutrients that your heart loves, like lycopene and potassium. Moreover, this wondrous fruit is nearly 90 percent water, aiding you in staying hydrated, which is vital to the proper functioning of your body.

Papaya

Papaya is still a lesser-known fruit that many people might shy away from, but it is a staple in South America. This fruit is high in antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin A, which may help the body avoid heart disease. Moreover, papaya naturally contains an enzyme known as papain, that aids in the breakdown of proteins, wound healing, fighting infections, and reducing inflammation.

Although it is undoubtedly fun eating these yummy foods, it is not the only way to advocate for cardiovascular health. From ACLS classes for healthcare providers to CPR for the everyday person, CPR123 can teach you all you need to know about saving lives in a cardiac-related incident.

Mango

These golden wonders are delightfully sweet and refreshing on a hot summer day, and they are an amazing food that can improve your cardiovascular health. The reason for this is that mangoes are high in potassium, magnesium, and fiber. These nutrients culminate in helping your body maintain lower blood pressure, aiding a healthy blood flow, and relaxing your vessels.

Gazpacho

If you love soup and think you have to give it up during the warm months, think again. Gazpacho is a cold soup that can help cool you down during the summer and give your body a heart-healthy boost. It contains a plethora of healthy and nutritional foods like basil, cilantro, cucumber, tomatoes, avocados, and spinach.

Sangria

Summer is the best time to enjoy a delicious cocktail or mocktail in the comfort of your backyard while you enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. Next time you prepare your beverage, consider making sangria—while it may not be a summer food, this summery drink still has plenty of heart-healthy benefits. Sangria is a drink that originated in Portugal and Spain, usually made with wine, but you can use a non-alcoholic replacement.

You can add any of the fruits we mentioned above and more to your drink, as it will add a dynamic flavor while improving your health. Moreover, sangria also contains spices like cinnamon, a powerful antioxidant with cardioprotective qualities.