After you have recovered from your heart attack, your doctor will put you on a heart-healthy diet. A heart healthy diet is a lifestyle change that will keep you and your heart healthy. A heart-healthy diet is composed of healthy foods that are high in vitamins and minerals and low in calories and fat.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables contain essential vitamins and minerals. Fruits and vegetables contain elements that are only found in plants and may help reduce cardiovascular disease. After you have a heart attack, you will have to watch how many calories and how much fat you consume. Fruits and vegetables are low in calories and fat, making them healthy items to add to your heart-healthy diet. The American Heart Association recommends consuming at least 4.5 cups of fruits and vegetables a day.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are an important component to a healthy diet, especially after having a heart attack. Whole grains contain fiber which can help regulate blood pressure and heart health. To add more whole grains into your diet, replace white grain products with whole grain products. Whole grain products include whole grain bread, whole grain pasta, whole grain flour, brown rice, oatmeal and flaxseed.
Fish
Fish is an excellent option for getting your protein. Unlike meats, fish contain healthy fats such as omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce the number of triglycerides in your blood, which can help prevent another heart attack. Cold water fish such as salmon, mackerel and herring contain the most omega-3 fatty acids. The American Heart Association recommends consuming at least two, 3.5-oz servings of fish a week.
Nuts, Legumes and Seeds
Nuts and legumes are another excellent source of protein and can be used in place of meats. Legumes include peas, lentils and beans and do not contain any cholesterol and have a lower fat content than animal proteins. Nuts are also low in fat and do not contain any cholesterol. Reducing the amount of cholesterol and fat in your diet after having a heart attack is critical so that you don't experience another heart attack. The American Heart Association recommends consuming four servings of nuts, legumes or seeds a week.
