Cardiac patients are often encouraged to make a host of dietary changes to reduce physical risk factors and improve heart health. A cardiac day diet, or a daily diet to improve heart health, eliminates foods that increase blood pressure or cholesterol levels. If you have cardiac health problems or are at high risk of them, your doctor will likely advise a personalized eating plan you can follow each day to improve your cardiovascular health.
Recommended Foods
Diets for cardiac care should include daily servings of lean protein lean protein, such as chicken, turkey or egg whites, whole grain foods, such as wheat breads, cereals, and brown rice, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Heart healthy oils, such as olive oil and omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish, are also advised in moderation. Low-fat dairy products such as skim milk, low-fat cheese, and fat-free yogurt also provide excellent sources of protein and calcium.
Restricted Foods
A diet for cardiac patients should limit daily intake of sodium and unhealthy fats. Processed foods, such as meats, canned soups or packaged meals, should be limited in salt and saturated or trans fats. Snack foods such as chips or baked goods should also be avoided, and oily fried foods should be replaced with broiled or baked selections.
Cooking Suggestions
Using fresh ingredients will help you lower both fat and salt content in your food. Use limited amounts of sunflower or olive oils for cooking, and steam or grill foods instead of sauteing or frying them. Flavoring foods with fresh herbs, citrus juices or hot sauces will also help you cut down on sodium and fatty ingredients such as butter or oils.
Expert Tips
Maintaining healthy weight can also be critical to cardiac health. A heart patient should practice healthy portion control and limit daily calorie intake to a healthy level. Your doctor can help you set safe calorie and weigh management goals. Your weight management plan should also include exercise of at least 30 minutes a day. Cardiac patients should always follow physician recommendations for safe diet and exercise.
