Heart-healthy Foods After A Heart Attack

Heart attacks occur when blood flow to the heart is blocked. It can be caused by atherosclerosis, a condition where fatty substances or plaque build up in the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart. If a piece of plaque breaks away, it can form a clot, which has the ability to block blood flow to the heart and cause a heart attack. Atherosclerosis is caused by high levels of cholesterol. A diet that reduces cholesterol is beneficial to the heart after a heart attack.

Low Fat

A diet that is low in saturated fats reduces the risk of developing another heart attack. High blood cholesterol levels may occur as a result of a diet high in fats. This causes atherosclerosis that can cause a heart attack. Avoid foods high in fat, such as palm kernel oil, red meats, seafood, poultry with skin and whole-milk dairy products, like cheese and ice cream. Eat foods that provide unsaturated fats, such as canola, peanut and olive oils, avocado fruit, almonds, hazelnuts, and seeds, such as pumpkin and sesame seeds. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, these foods lower blood cholesterol.

Low Salt

A diet that is high in salt or sodium can lead to hypertension or high blood pressure. This can put unnecessary stress on the heart. After a heart attack, the heart needs time to recover, and high blood pressure denies the heart of this need. After a heart attack, consume foods that are low in salt. Avoid adding extra salt to your food, and read the labels on canned foods before purchasing them. Avoid canned and processed foods that have high sodium content.

Fruits and Vegetables

Include fruits and vegetables in your diet after a heart attack. They contain numerous properties, vitamins and minerals that help the heart function normally. Fruits and vegetables act as antioxidants and protect the heart from the harmful effects of free radicals. They provide fiber, which reduces the blood cholesterol levels. They also reduce your risk of coronary heart disease and high blood pressure, thus reducing the chance of another heart attack.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial after a heart attack. They reduce the growth rate of atherosclerotic plaques in the body that can lead to heart attacks. They also prevent blood clots, which put you at risk for another heart attack. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids are fish like salmon, tuna, shrimp and catfish.