By making a few changes to the foods you eat every day, you can adopt a diet that promotes the health of your cardiovascular system. It's always a good time to start a cardiovascular diet, according to the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources; a heart-healthy diet has long-term benefits. By starting young, you promote a lifetime of heart healthiness and prevent cardiovascular illness.
Features
The website Mayo Clinic states you should eat low-fat, low-cholesterol foods to promote a healthy cardiovascular system. Choose healthy fats, such as olive oil, when cooking and opt for lean meats such as chicken and fish. Eat plenty of legumes to increase your intake of healthy protein and switch to low-fat dairy products. The fiber and nutrients found in fresh vegetables and fruits comprise a heart-healthy diet. Add whole grains to your diet including wheat bread, brown rice and oatmeal to increase your cardiovascular health.
Benefits
By eating a heart-healthy diet, you can lower your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, according to the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources. Making healthy dietary choices can prevent your arteries from becoming hard and clogged with fatty deposits. A healthy diet can also reduce your blood pressure and cholesterol levels and lower your risk of heart attack and stroke.
Considerations
Almost everyone can benefit from following a diet focused on cardiovascular health. However, the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources stresses that children under two years old should never be put on low-fat diets. If your doctor has put you on a restrictive diet or if you suffer from renal failure or inflammatory bowel disease, a low-fat diet may not be best for you. Talk to your doctor before switching to a heart-healthy diet.
Warning
Be sure to read labels on packaged foods carefully when following a heart-friendly diet. MayoClinic.com states that it is especially important for anyone following a cardiovascular diet to avoid trans fats. Don't eat foods that list any types of hydrogenated oils on their ingredient lists to cut trans fats from your diet. Also try to avoid saturated fats and cholesterol to promote the health of your cardiovascular system.
Expert Insight
MayoClinic.com recommends allowing yourself a special treat once in a while when following a cardiovascular diet. The occasional bowl of ice cream won't do much harm and by allowing yourself to indulge you may prevent overdoing it later. Just be sure to keep the treats to a minimum.
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