Heart disease is the No. 1 killer in the United States. Each year, more than 750,000 people have a heart attack for the first time and more than 425,000 have a second heart attack, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC says that one in every four deaths in the United States was from heart disease in 2006.
Considerations
Heart disease causes serious disability in people who are affected by the disease, although it's considered preventable. MedlinePlus says there are many different forms of heart disease, that the most common cause involves narrowing of the coronary arteries. This can be caused by high levels of cholesterol in the blood from poor nutrition and exercise habits.
Significance of Nutrition
The CDC lists five lifestyle factors that can significantly lower your risk for heart disease: avoiding smoking, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy body weight, limiting alcohol use and a nutritious diet. It says the latter can help you avoid heart disease and its complications. The Harvard School of Public Health agrees and says that what you eat is one of the most important lifestyle choices you can make to lower your risk of chronic illness, such as heart disease.
Benefits of Nutrition
According to the Harvard School of Public Health, a nutritious diet full of fruits, vegetables and low in saturated fat lowers blood pressure, reduces the risk of cancer, lowers the risk of eye and digestive problems and lowers the risk of heart disease and stroke. Nutrition also contributes to an ideal body weight, which can further lower the risk of chronic disease.
Treatment
If you have heart disease, treatments may include medication, surgery and lifestyle modification such as diet plans and exercise. A combination of these may be the best way to control symptoms and reduce risk of death. Prevention of heart disease through diet and exercise is the best way to reduce your risk.
Recommendations
MedlinePlus says you can help reduce your risk of heart disease by taking steps to control factors that put you at greater risk. These include controlling your blood pressure, lowering cholesterol, avoiding smoking, and exercising. A nutritious diet helps with cholesterol, blood pressure and helps you maintain a healthy body weight. A heart-healthy diet includes eating foods low in saturated fat and cholesterol and high in fiber, according to the CDC. This includes fruits, vegetables, healthy fats and whole grains that can help prevent high blood cholesterol. In addition, you should limit sodium in your diet. Doing so can lower your blood pressure.
