Coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease. It is characterized by a buildup of cholesterol and other material in the inner walls of the arteries, which ultimately results in narrowed and hardened arteries. The arteries are needed to supply blood to the heart and a heart attack or stroke may result from coronary artery disease. Nutritional therapy is important for coronary artery disease sufferers and it can help to prevent or slow the progression of the disease.
Dietary Basics
You should minimize your consumption of all processed and refined foods and eat a diet that is based on whole foods. It is especially important to avoid refined carbohydrates such as sugar, cane syrup, corn syrup, white bread, croissants and bagels. Complex carbohydrates such as beans, legumes, and whole grains are nutrient dense and high in fiber -- you should eat a diet that is high in them.
Eat a High Fiber Diet
Fiber is especially important, and fruits and vegetables are high in fiber. However, studies have shown that the fiber found in breakfast cereals produces the greatest benefit for coronary artery disease sufferers, according to Phyllis Balch in her 2003 book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." A high fiber intake can decrease circulating cholesterol levels and help to absorb and eliminate harmful toxins. About 30 to 50g of fiber a day is optimal, and you can take a fiber supplement to help you reach this requirement. All fibers produce a slightly different effect in the bowels and the body. For optimal results, the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition recommends combining the following fibers to provide 5g of fiber, three times daily -- ground flaxseed, pectin, psyllium, oat bran, guar gum and rice bran.
Healthy and Unhealthy Fats
Saturated fats, trans fats, hydrogenated vegetable oils, and all fried and greasy foods are discouraged. Healthy fats such as olive oil, flax oil, hemp oil and coconut oil are however, considered to be health promoting fats, and eating them regularly, but in moderation, is therefore recommended.
Super Omega-3 Fats
Omega-3 essential fatty acids may be especially beneficial. They are found in high amounts in cold water fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines. Walnuts, flaxseeds, tofu, soybeans, leafy green vegetables and game meat, are also high in omega-3s and eating them regularly may be helpful for those with coronary artery disease. Omega-3s have been shown to increase healthy HDL cholesterol levels, lower triglycerides, prevent blood from becoming sticky, and decrease overall inflammation levels in the body. Due to the numerous benefits of omega-3s, the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition suggests taking a fish oil supplement, and says to take a minimum of 1 to 2g a day of combined EPA and DHA, which are two important omega-3 fatty acids. Most quality fish oil supplements will list the amount of EPA and DHA they contain on the label. Fish oil supplements may interact with certain medications, however, and it is important that you consult with a health care practitioner before you take any new supplement.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch; 2003
- "Pathology and Nutrition"; The Canadian School of Natural Nutrition; 2008
- MedlinePlus: Coronary Artery Disease
