Heart disease kills more men and women in the U.S. than any other illness, according to the American Heart Association. To improve the health of heart patients and reduce their risk of death, the American Heart Association recommends the Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes Diet, or TLC. This diet emphasizes a low intake of saturated fat, low cholesterol intake and an increase in foods high in fiber. Consult with a physician before making changes to diet.
Limit Saturated Fat
The TLC diet recommends people with a history of cardiovascular disease limit their intake of saturated fat to less than 7 percent of total calories. Saturated fat is primarily found in animal fats and proteins. To limit intake, heart patients should choose leaner cuts of meat and low-fat and fat-free dairy products. Lean meat choices include beef eye of round, pork loin, white meat poultry and fish.
Decrease Dietary Cholesterol
People with a history of cardiovascular disease need to limit their intake of dietary cholesterol to less than 200mg a day. Cholesterol in foods leads to elevations in blood cholesterol levels. Animal proteins and fats are the primary sources of cholesterol in the diet. To limit the intake of dietary cholesterol, heart patients need to choose lean meats, use margarine instead of butter, drink skim milk and limit egg yolks to two times a week.
Eat Foods High in Soluble Fiber
The TLC diet suggests people with cardiovascular disease eat 10 to 25g of soluble fiber a day. Soluble fiber prevents the body from absorbing cholesterol and helps lower blood cholesterol levels, reducing cardiovascular risk. Food sources of soluble fiber include oatmeal, barley, pears, kidney beans and prunes.
Decrease Sodium Intake
Although not specifically mentioned as part of the TLC diet, the American Heart Association recommends for overall heart health people limit their intake of sodium to 1,500mg a day. High sodium intake leads to fluid retention and an increase in blood pressure. High blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease. Choosing to eat more fresh, whole foods, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and meats, helps to reduce sodium intake. In addition, eliminating salt during cooking and at the dinner table will also help.
Add Plant Stanols and Sterols
Plant stanols and sterols have been shown to reduce cholesterol levels, according to the Cleveland Clinic. These cholesterol-lowering substances can be found in small quantities in vegetable oils, nuts, legumes and whole grains. The TLC diet recommends 2g of plant stanols and sterols a day to improve cardiovascular health. Adding fortified foods to the diet can help meet these needs. Foods containing plant stanols and sterols include Benecol Spread, Lifetime low-fat cheeses, Minute Maid Heart Wise orange juice and Promise Activ spread.
