Eating A Heart-healthy Diet

Eating A Heart-healthy Diet
Introduction
What foods are part of a heart-healthy diet?
Why is it important to choose a heart-healthy diet?
How to eat a heart-healthy diet
Where to go from here
References
Credits

Content provided by Healthwise

Introduction

Heart disease is the number one killer of both men and women in the United States. If you are worried about heart disease, one of the most important things you can do is to start eating a heart-healthy diet. Changing your diet can help stop or even reverse heart disease.

At first, it may seem like there is a lot to learn. But you don't have to make these changes all at once. Start with small steps. Over time, making a number of small changes can add up to a big difference in your heart health.

To have a heart-healthy diet:

Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other high-fiber foods.
Choose foods that are low in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol.
Limit salt (sodium).
Stay at a healthy weight by balancing the calories you eat with your physical activity.
Eat more foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish.

What foods are part of a heart-healthy diet?

Why is it important to choose a heart-healthy diet?

How to eat a heart-healthy diet

Where to go from here

For related information, see:

Exercising for a healthy heart.

Walking for a healthy heart.

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Last updated:	May 29, 2007
Author:	Robin Parks, MS
Reviewed By:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine, Ruth Schneider, MPH, RD - Diet and Nutrition
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman

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