When first diagnosed, finding a heart healthy diet that we can adhere to is rough. Adopting a heart healthy diet is part of a life style change. Yes, it is rough, but is well worth the time and effort. When I had my first diet, my doctor said to adhere to a low-fat low-choleterol diet, well it was rough, but after getting used to it, I found I could adhere to it and still eat good. Keep your chin up, and stay positive.
May 16
What diet is recommended for someone with heart disease?
There's no single "perfect" diet for everyone with heart disease, but there are some well-supported options worth exploring with a doctor or dietitian. The most commonly recommended is the Mediterranean diet, which focuses on:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Whole Show Full Answer
What diet is recommended for someone with heart disease?
There's no single "perfect" diet for everyone with heart disease, but there are some well-supported options worth exploring with a doctor or dietitian. The most commonly recommended is the Mediterranean diet, which focuses on:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Fish and lean poultry
- Healthy fats (like olive oil)
- Limited red meat and added sugars In general, most heart-healthy eating plans suggest reducing or avoiding:
- Sodium/salt – which can raise blood pressure and strain the heart
- Saturated and trans fats – which can affect cholesterol levels
- Processed and refined foods
- Added sugars
A MyHeartDiseaseTeam member shared helpful advice from their dietitian: "Watch sodium and salt counts, limit highly processed foods, and try to eat as much fruit and veggies as you can." It's also worth noting that some popular diets, like keto, may carry added risks for people with heart disease, including a higher chance of heart attack or stroke. It's best to check with a cardiologist before trying any restrictive diet.
Working with a registered dietitian is one of the best steps to take — they can tailor a plan specifically to the type of heart disease involved and personal food preferences. A referral can often be requested through a cardiologist.
May 16
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