Heart bypass surgery is usually performed when fatty plaque build-up restricts blood flow to the heart, causing increased blood pressure and poor circulation. Bypass surgery creates a new channel for blood to flow into the heart, giving the patient improved circulation. Patients who undergo heart bypass surgery must adhere to a strict diet to control both cholesterol and blood pressure and ensure long-term improvements in their health.
Recommended Foods
Heart bypass patients are encouraged to eat small, frequent meals after their surgery. Fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains will all provide fiber, help reduce constipation and offer essential vitamins and minerals. As a patient recovers long-term, it's essential to follow a healthy, balanced diet very low in saturated fats. According to the University of Southern California School of Medicine, foods such as skinless chicken, fat-free dairy or eggs whites are all recommended sources of lean proteins, while fresh salads, whole grain breads and whole wheat pastas or cereals provide excellent sources of fiber.
Food Restrictions
Heart bypass patients should take careful measure to avoid foods that are high in saturated or tans fats or sodium. Prepared baked goods, canned foods and processed meats all tend to be higher in unhealthy fats and sodium, so patients are encouraged to select fresh foods and read food labels carefully. Fried foods and junk foods are typically high trans fats and should be eliminated from a patient's diet. Patients should also be careful to restrict their use of butter, shortening or fatty condiments.
Tips on Fats and Sodium
The American Heart Association notes that daily sodium intake should be limited to no more than 1,500 mg per day, which means patients must avoid using excess salt during cooking or eating foods that are pre-salted. Foods can be spiced with alternative ingredients such as hot sauces, fresh herbs or citrus juices. Healthy oils such as olive oil, sunflower oil and flaxseed oil should be used in place of lard or coconut oil. Patients should try to consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and trout.
Expert Insights
The University of Southern California School of Medicine recommends that heart bypass patients carefully monitor their fluid intake in order to control possible fluid retention and salt imbalanced that may be caused by post-surgery medications. It is essential to follow medical guidelines closely and to adhere to physician-recommended exercise plans to control both blood pressure and body weight.
References
- University of Southern California: A Patient's Guide to Heart Surgery, Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of Southern California
- Cleveland Clinic: Diet After Bypass Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, 2011
- Better Health Channel: Heart Bypass Surgery, State Government of Victoria, Victoria, Australia, June 30, 2011
- American Heart Association: American Heart Association Supports New USDA/HHS Dietary Guidelines and Encourages Adherence, American Heart Association, January 3, 2011
