For a healthy heart, Pepsi picks oats

 Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the No 1 cause of death globally, according to the World Health Organisation. 
An estimated 17.9 million people died from CVDs in 2016, representing 31 per cent of all deaths. 
In Thailand, the number of deaths from cardiovascular diseases is on the rise. In 2016 alone, 32 people per 100,000 population died from heart and artery disease. 
The risk factors of CVDs include high blood pressure, blood cholesterol, physical inactivity, lack of vegetables and fruits, tobacco use and stress.
 “The Happy Healthy Heart event reiterates PepsiCo’s commitment to conducting business in a sustainable manner under the Performance with Purpose philosophy,” said general manager Kurt Preshaw. 
“In Thailand we provide a large range of food and beverages, from treats to healthy eats. We are transforming our portfolio and offering healthier choices such as Quaker, which is the world’s No 1 oats brand. Thanks to its powerful benefits from various nutrients as well as ability to reduce cholesterol, Quaker has been one of the most trusted food brands globally for more than 140 years. And we believe that our Quaker products will play a big part in strengthening heart health for Thais.”
Dr Piyanuch Ruckpanich, a cardiologist with the Heart Foundation of Thailand under royal patronage, spoke about the current situation of heart disease as well as its causes and prevention. 
She explained how to take charge of your health by following the “3E Rules for Healthy Heart”.
The first “E” stands for “Eating a diverse and healthy diet”, covering five essential nutrients, decreasing the intake of foods high in fat, sodium and sugar, and adding more vegetables and fruits to your diet. 
The second “E” is for Exercise. Exercising for 25 to 30 minutes three to five days a week can keep your heart healthy, improve physical strength and fitness and boost the immune system. 
The last “E” stands for Emotion. The positive emotions derived from relaxing activities such as hobbies, music therapy, meditation and even laughing can help reduce stress hormones and the risk of heart disease and lengthen the life span.
“Oats are ‘good carbs’, full of nutrients including protein, Vitamin B1, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc and iron, and at higher doses than other whole grains like brown rice, wheat and white rice,” said Dr Kit Phanvijhitsiri, nutrition manager at Pepsi-Cola (Thai) Trading.
“Plus, they are a good source of fibre, which can help slow digestion and support a healthy digestive system. Most importantly, research has shown that oats are an effective way to help lower blood cholesterol, which in turn can reduce the risk of heart disease thanks to the power of a soluble fibre called beta-glucan, largely unique to oats.”