Myocardial Infarction is the medical term for a heart attack, which is an interruption of blood and oxygen to part of the heart. Without medical intervention, a heart attack can cause significant damage and eventually death of heart muscle tissue. Myocardial Infarction is the leading cause of death among men and women worldwide. Although there are many risk factors that impact your chances of having a heart attack, once you have suffered a heart attack, the nutritional management for preventing another cardiac event is consistent for everyone.
Limit Fat, Cholesterol and Trans Fats
The American Heart Association recommends that no more than 30 percent of your daily calories should come from fat and no more than 7 percent should come from saturated fat. Saturated fats can increase blood cholesterol levels and are found in animal products: red meat, fish, poultry and eggs and dairy products. Saturated fats are also in processed foods; look for the term "hydrogenated oil" on the label. Cholesterol is found only in foods of animal origin and should be limited to less than 300 mg per day. The latest research suggests that trans fats should be limited to no more than 2 g per day. Trans fats are found in processed foods and are listed as "partially hydrogenated oil" on food labels.
Include More Heart-Healthy Fats
Replace saturated fats with monounsaturated fats found in olive oil, canola oil, peanut oil and avocados. These fats can decrease total cholesterol, decrease LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol. In additional, include sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These fats can decrease your triglycerides, improve your overall heart health and decrease inflammation. It is best to get omega-3 fats from foods rather than supplements. Two to three times a week, try to include fish such as wild salmon, anchovies, mackerel, lake trout or tuna. Other sources are walnuts, ground flaxseeds or flaxseed oil.
Increase High-Fiber Foods
Fiber adds bulk to your diet to create a feeling of fullness, improve your digestive health and lower your cholesterol. Increase fruits and vegetables to a minimum of five servings per day; seven to nine servings per day is even better. Make half of your grains whole grains, and include more beans, nuts, seeds and lentils.
Other Important Tips
Limit your sodium intake to 1,500 mg per day. Limit caffeine. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation, which means one drink per day for women, two drinks per day for men. Maintain a healthy weight. Exercise regularly. Don't smoke.
Experiencing a heart attack can be frightening. Take control of your health to prevent future cardiac events. If possible, enroll in a cardiac rehabilitation program where you can receive the education and support you need to make heart-healthy lifestyle changes.
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