Fat and Cholesterol

• Although we need some fat in our diet, most of us get too much of the wrong kinds of fat. Reducing the amount of saturated fat in your diet can help prevent coronary artery disease, a condition which can lead to heart attacks. Cholesterol also contributes to blocked arteries, so you may be asked to avoid dietary cholesterol. Your doctor will tell you how much heart-healthy fat your diet should include. A common recommendation is 30 percent of total calories from fat, with less than 10 percent of those calories from saturated fat. Avoid saturated fats: organ meats, liver, fatty red meat, whole milk and products made from whole milk, egg yolks, fried foods, coconut oil and palm oil. Sources of healthier monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats include fatty fish like tuna, salmon and trout, and vegetable oils including olive oil, sunflower oil, and corn oil.
  
  

Sodium

• Most heart patients are instructed to reduce their sodium intake. This can help with hypertension and fluid retention, which are common among heart patients. Your doctor will let you know how much sodium your diet can include; the recommendation may vary between 1,200 and 2,000 mg/day. Avoid salty, smoked and processed meat products: sausages, bacon, ham, canned meat, canned fish, luncheon meats, pepperoni and pastrami. Avoid any foods which are in brine: olives, pickles, relish, pickled vegetables and sauerkraut. Most snack foods, like chips, pretzels, popcorn and nuts are high in salt and should be avoided. Canned soups are usually high in sodium, as are instant soups and bouillon cubes. Avoid MSG (monosodium glutamate) in prepared foods and Chinese foods. Generally canned foods have higher sodium than frozen or fresh foods. Read labels carefully to monitor your salt intake. Talk with your doctor about salt substitutes. Learn to use spices and herbs to add flavor to food prepared with less salt.
  
  

General Guidelines

• You will typically be given a total amount of calories you may consume per day (1,200 to 2,000 is common), along with limits on the amount of fat and sodium, and perhaps carbohydrates. Some cardiac patients are placed on fluid restriction as well. Choose complex carbohydrates including vegetables, fruits, whole grains and whole grain products over sugary, starchy foods. Choose lean protein sources and heart healthy fats. If you have problems eating because of a lack of appetite or nausea, talk with your doctor. You may find eating smaller, more frequent meals helpful.