Although the two conditions, congestive heart problems and diabetes, sound separate and distinct, the common link that supports both conditions is nutritionally balanced food. Congestive heart problems occur when congestion, or fluid, affects blood circulation from the heart. With diabetes, the quantity of glucose in the blood is out of balance and needs stabilization. Food affects both conditions either negatively or positively depending on the nutritional properties and quality of foods ingested.
Foods for Congestive Heart Problems
Some foods can be congesting foods while others do not produce unnecessary congestion. The least congesting foods include fresh vegetables such as squashes, root vegetables, celery, dark green leafy vegetables and salad greens. Some experts, including author Elson Haas from his book, "Staying Healthy with Nutrition," suggest that "A vegetarian diet may be a healthful step for those with some congestive problems." In addition to seeking less congesting foods from vegetables, consider increasing the intake of fresh, filtered water, herbal teas and fresh fruits. Eliminate fried foods, red meat and dairy products. Replace the harmful, fatty foods with healthy omega-3 fats such as those found in flax seeds and wild-caught salmon and fish. Select grains that promote health and energy such as oats, whole grains, brown rice or millet.
Foods for Diabetes
Vegetables that do not interfere with blood glucose levels in a negative way include green vegetables, red and green bell peppers, cucumber, celery, carrots, tomatoes and garlic. Lean meats are acceptable choices for diabetes, as well as protein rich foods such as peanuts, low-fat cottage cheese or unsweetened yogurt and eggs, according to Lavonne J. Dunne. For a diabetic, carbohydrates should provide energy without jeopardizing the blood sugar levels. Consider adding cinnamon to oats, groats, brown rice and whole grain bread products. Nuts such as almonds or walnuts, avocados, sunflower seeds and olive oil contain omega-3 fatty acids, healthy sources of fats. Avoid saturated fats and fried foods. Enjoyable fruits are good foods for diabetes and include fresh strawberries, raspberries, grapes, plums pears and bananas.
Foods for Both Conditions
For both conditions, choose carbohydrates wisely and avoid white sugar, white flour and highly-processed foods. Good choices for healthy carbohydrates include brown rice cakes or crackers with hummus, an apple, a slice of whole grain toast or a banana. Legumes, lentils, buckwheat and barley are also acceptable. Dishes that are low in fat and high in fiber such as vegetables with chick peas or couscous are smart choices for patients with either congestive heart problems or diabetes. Lean meats and fish, such as skinless, boneless chicken, cold-water, wild-caught fish or lean turkey, are heart-healthy foods. Add mango salsa or a tomato-based salsa to meats or fish for added nutrients and antioxidants. Jerusalem artichokes, spinach, dandelion greens and mushrooms contain vitamins and minerals that support both conditions. Brown rice is recommended, according to Dr. Lisa Hark, along with steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, and fresh fruit choices for dessert, such as blueberries or mandarins.
References
- "Staying Healthy with Nutrition"; Elson M. Haas; 2006
- "Nutrition Almanac"; Lavon J. Dunne; 2001
- "Nutrition for Life"; Lisa Hark, Ph.D, RD and Darwin Deen, MD; 2009
