Diet and nutrition play a role in the prevention of many chronic diseases. Eating more fruits and vegetables may reduce your risk of developing cancer, diabetes and heart disease, according to the Stanford Cancer Institute. When fatty deposits on the artery walls reduce blood supply to the heart, doctors perform bypass surgery, which allows blood flow to bypass the blockage. After the operation, committing to certain lifestyle changes – including healthy eating – can help prevent further complications.
Diet
The Cleveland Clinic’s Preventive Cardiology and Rehabilitative program recommends a diet for coronary bypass patients that focuses on the individual’s needs. A patient’s blood pressure, weight and lipid profile are considered when dietary guidelines are established. In general, though, if you are at risk for coronary heart disease, less than 7 percent of your total calories should come from saturated fat and less than 1 percent should come from trans fat. In addition, you should consume no more than 300 milligrams of dietary cholesterol each day. Eat whole-grain, high-fiber foods, fat-free or low-fat dairy products, oily fish and lots of fruits and vegetables. Fruits rank among the top heart-healthy foods, along with oatmeal, dark green leafy vegetables and soy protein.
Role of Anti-oxidants
Anti-oxidants help fight free-radical damage to your tissues and organs. Oxidation of cholesterol is a known factor in the development of heart disease, according to the Cleveland Clinic. When unstable oxygen molecules combine with particles of LDL – or bad cholesterol – fatty plaque accumulates on your artery walls. Over time, this buildup narrows arteries, slowing or blocking blood flow to the heart. Although taking dietary supplements that provide anti-oxidant vitamins may not necessarily prevent heart disease, eating a diet that includes foods that contain anti-oxidant nutrients such as vitamins A, C and E may reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Phytochemicals
Plants produce chemical compounds known as phytochemicals, which are present in most fruits, vegetables, beans and grains. The phytochemicals found in some foods act as anti-oxidants, so eating plenty of brightly colored fruits including blue, yellow, orange, red and purple fruits may decrease your risk of developing heart disease. Fruits high in anti-oxidants include berries – especially blueberries – citrus fruits, cantaloupe, nectarines, mangoes and papaya. Anthocyanins are a source of phytochemicals found in blueberries and raspberries that help protect against heart disease. Phenolics found in citrus fruits are another source of phytochemicals. They offer a number of health benefits that include protecting against heart disease.
Other Good-for-the Heart Foods
Besides fruits, which are high in anti-oxidants that help prevent heart disease, other foods that are good for the heart include soy, salmon, oatmeal and green vegetables. The Mayo Clinic website points out that consumption of omega-3 fatty acids can lower triglycerides, slow plaque buildup in the arteries, lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in those with known cardiovascular disease. Salmon and other cold-water fish are food sources rich in omega-3. Soy is a protein that contains vitamins, minerals and fiber. Including soy protein in your diet can also lower triglycerides. Oats, too, are packed full of vitamins, minerals and fiber that can reduce your risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol.
References
- Better Health; Heart Bypass Surgery; June 2011
- Cleveland Clinic: Diet After By-Pass Surgery
- Cleveland Clinic: Antioxidants, Vitamin E, Beta Carotene and Cardiovascular Disease
- Stanford Medicine: Nutrition to Reduce Cancer Risk
- Mayo Clinic; Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Fish Oil, Alpha-Linolenic Acid; August 2011
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