Written by Jason Sadlofsky, DO
Nutrition is a very effective but often underutilized modality for preventing and treating cardiovascular disease. According to some studies, the risk of death from cardiovascular causes can be reduced by up to 28% in those closely adhering to a high-quality dietary pattern.
At North Suffolk Cardiology, we have recognized the central importance of diet in health and disease and have a dedicated and expanding nutrition program.
Dietary measures are, in fact, an essential part of treating the most common conditions we see, such as high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, hyperlipidemia, congestive heart failure, and atrial fibrillation. The American College of Cardiology (ACC) recommendations regarding dietary measures for these conditions carry the highest level of confidence and supporting evidence. Implementing these recommendations can alter the course of disease and mitigate the need for some medications.
The ACC recommends dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean diet, Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH diet), and healthy vegetarian diets. These patterns have many overlapping components and are more alike than different. It's important to note that, in all cases, the pattern of eating is beneficial, and there is no one specific type of food, such as beets or kale, although these can be components of a heart-healthy diet.
Of course, a diet must be tailored to taste, affordability, and specific health needs, but, in general, recommended diets have the following five components:
1) Large intake of fruits and vegetables with a daily goal of approximately eight servings per day. It is acceptable to use fresh, frozen, canned or dried. Not juices!
2) Limiting saturated fat intake to less than 5% to 6% of caloric intake. In most cases, this means less than 13g of saturated fat per day. Common sources of saturated fat include red meat and whole dairy.
3) Use whole grains, not refined grains. Great whole grains include oatmeal, quinoa, bulgur and brown rice. Refined grains are made by eliminating at least one or more of the components of the grain seed, thereby depleting its nutritional value. Interestingly, there were no refined grains until the 1800s, but they have, unfortunately, come to dominate a large portion of our diet and include many beloved foods such as pasta and bread.
4) Choose healthy proteins. Healthy proteins include legumes such as lentils and chickpeas, fish such as salmon or tuna, and lean poultry.
5) Minimize processed foods and beverages with added sugar.
It is never easy to change habits, but there are many rewards. Implementing the five recommendations above will go a long way to reducing the risk of disease and possibly the need for medication.
To schedule an appointment with North Suffolk Cardiology, call (631) 941-2000.