Heart failure is a condition in which the heart cannot sufficiently propel blood forward from either the right side of the heart to the lungs or the left side of the heart to the systemic circulation and brain. If you have congestive heart failure, it's important to understand that foods high in sodium will cause your body to hold onto fluid and put additional stress on your heart.
Significance
When the left side of the heart is affected, blood backs up into the heart chamber, called the left atria, and the pulmonary veins. This increased pressure causes fluid to leak into the lungs and causes edema. A prolonged failure of the left side of the heart will place pressure on the right side of the heart. When the right side of the heart is affected, it causes blood to back up into the right atrium and will eventually cause systemic edema. Systemic edema will cause swelling in the extremities.
Dietary Recommendations
High sodium intake can cause fluid retention and contribute to edema. Fluid accumulation puts more strain on the heart and can lead to shortness of breath. Your doctor may prescribe diuretics to help your body excrete excess fluid. Diuretics cause your body to lose potassium and magnesium, so you will need to increase your intake of these minerals. According to "The Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing," a manageable dietary regimen for patients with mild to moderate heart failure includes avoiding salty foods and not adding salt to foods after cooking. Read food labels for sodium content when you buy canned or frozen foods. Use salt substitutes with caution, as many of these are sodium based. Avoid alcohol, as it decreases the heart's ability to pump blood.
Weight Maintenance
You will need to monitor your weight if you have congestive heart failure. Fluid retention may lead to weight gain, which places an additional burden on the heart. Weigh yourself daily to make sure you're not retaining additional fluids. A two-day weight gain of 3 lbs. or a 3 to 5 lb. weight gain over a week is a concern, and you should consult your doctor.
Considerations
Your daily diet should include foods that are nutrient-dense, easy to eat and easy to digest. Avoid large meals, which may increase pressure on the chest, further impeding breathing. Your energy needs increase when you have heart failure because of the increased workload for the respiratory system and heart. Preserve energy by resting for an hour before meals.
Patient Education
To keep yourself in the best shape after heart failure, make sure you get regular check-ups and keep your doctor informed of any changes. Always discuss dietary changes with your doctor.
References
- Heart Failure Online: Diet
- "The Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing"; Nurse Educator Guidelines for the Management of Heart Failure; S. Washburn, C. Hornberger, Ph.D.,; Jun. 2008
- "Nutrition and Diet Therapy"; C. Lutz, K. Przytulski; 2011
