Diet and exercise are essential in treating coronary heart disease, explains Nutrition MD, the website operated by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM). Coronary heart disease, also known as coronary artery disease or heart disease, often occurs because of atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries. Fat, cholesterol and other substances form plaque in the inner lining of arteries in the heart, blocking blood flow and increasing the risk of heart attack.
Reverse Effects
Good nutrition not only helps prevent heart disease, but it can also reverse the progression of atherosclerosis and development of heart disease, the PCRM says. A diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol lowers blood cholesterol levels and can help reduce atherosclerosis.
Fruits, Veggies and Grains
Eating a variety of vegetables and fruits helps control your weight and blood pressure, says the American Heart Association (AHA). Fruits and vegetables are low in calories, and they contain lots of vitamins, minerals and fiber. Whole-grain foods also have fiber and help lower blood cholesterol levels. Fiber can be found in oats, barley and beans. The AHA also recommends eating fish at least twice a week to lower the risk of heart disease. Fish with omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, trout and herring are especially recommended.
Fats
Limit your intake of food containing partially hydrogenated vegetable oils or trans fat. Avoid foods high in dietary cholesterol as well as beverages and foods with added sugars. Choose lean meats and poultry without skin. Don't add saturated or trans fat when preparing them. When it comes to dairy products, select fat-free, 1 percent fat or low-fat items.
Foods to Avoid
The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) suggests avoiding or limiting the intake of the following foods: potato chips, French fries, fried foods, junk foods and vegetables cooked in butter, cheese or cream sauces. Also stay away from bacon, sausage and organ meats such as liver, egg yolks, butter, margarine, cheesecake, pastries, doughnuts and ice cream. These foods contain saturated or trans fats. Instead, choose steamed, baked or fresh foods, the AAFP says. You can have egg whites or egg substitutes. When using oil, stick to olive oil or canola oil in small amounts.
Drinking and Smoking
The PCRM does not recommend alcohol consumption as a way to prevent heart disease. Even though there has been speculation about benefits to the heart from moderate drinking, no controlled clinical trials have been done to examine the effect of alcohol intake on heart disease. Smoking can increase blood clotting and lowers HDL, or good cholesterol that helps flush away LDL, or bad cholesterol from the arteries, the AHA says.
