In 2006, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated that heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. A common treatment option for those with severe heart disease is coronary artery bypass graft surgery. The process involves grafting a healthy vein from elsewhere in the body to a blocked coronary artery in which improved blood flow and oxygenation to the heart occurs. Following surgery, the American Heart Association recommends that patients follow a heart-healthy diet sensible in salt and saturated fat.
Not All Fats Are Created Equal
Following a heart-healthy diet involves learning the differences between unhealthy and healthy fats. A diet high in unhealthy fats -- trans and saturated fats -- can raise LDL, or "bad," cholesterol, thus increasing heart disease risks. Foods high in saturated and trans fats include processed meats, cheese, beef, high fat dairy products, pre-packaged foods, fried foods, and baked goods. The American Heart Association recommends limiting saturated fats to less than 7 percent of your total caloric intake while aiming to substitute these fats for unsaturated, healthy fats. Healthy sources of unsaturated fat include olive and canola oil, fish, nuts, nut butters and avocados.
Increase Fiber
Individuals whose diets are higher in whole grains and fiber have decreased risk of cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association recommends women consume a minimum of 25 g of fiber per day and men 30 grams of fiber per day. Soluble fiber, in particular, found in berries and oats, has a positive impact on lowering LDL cholesterol and limiting endogenous cholesterol production by the body.
Watch your Sodium Intake
You should limit your sodium intake to less than 1500 mg -- which is less than a teaspoon of salt -- per day. To do this, you need to read food labels and stop using the salt shaker and salt seasonings. When shopping, aim to avoid processed foods, packaged foods, baked goods, hot dogs, and deli meats. Also, be wary of eating out and take-out foods, as one restaurant meal can easily contain more than 1500 mg of sodium -- your entire recommended daily intake.
Minimize Sweetened Beverages
Consuming calories from sweetened beverages may lead to added weight gain and an increase in blood triglycerides. For instance, the average 20 oz. soda contains approximately 18 tsp. of sugar, or 250 calories. For this reason, the American Heart Association recommends individuals aim to consume less than 4 oz. of sweetened beverages per day. Beverages included in this category are soda, 100 percent juice, juice from concentrate, sweetened tea and energy drinks.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Heart Disease Facts and Statistics; April 2009
- "Journal of the American Heart Association"; Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations Revision 2006; June 2006
- "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition"; Saturated Fat, Carbohydrate, and Cardiovascular Disease; March 2010
- "Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report"; Application of Lower Sodium Intake Recommendations to Adults; March 2009
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