A healthy diet that is low in sodium and saturated fat is key to heart disease prevention. Try the highly rated Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating
plan.
It recommends:
- Eating vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
- Eating fish, poultry, beans, nuts, vegetable oils, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products
- Limiting foods that are high in saturated fat and sodium
- Limiting sugar and other sweeteners.
Learn more about the DASH eating plan.
Sticking to your healthy eating goals is easier when you enlist the help of a friend or family member to keep you motivated.
Going out to eat or ordering takeout? Here’s some tips:
- Nix the all-you-can-eat meals, where people tend to overeat.
- Split a meal with a friend or family member.
- If you get fast food, ask for a salad instead of fries, and don’t get the “deluxe” sandwich.
- Bring a salad or veggie side dish to your next potluck, so you’ll have something healthy to fill up on.
Studies suggest that we tend to eat like our friends and family. Your healthy choices may inspire those around you.
For more information and ideas, use these links:
- NHLBI Resources
- Heart-Healthy Eating Plan
- Put Your Heart into Getting Active & Eating Healthy Tip Sheet
- DASH Eating Plan
- Cholesterol & Your Heart: What You Need to Know
- Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes (TLC) To Lower Cholesterol
- Delicious Heart-Healthy Recipes
- Eat Healthier GIF
- Choose Foods Low in Sodium
- Healthier Fats and Oils
- Tips for Eating Out
- Read the Food Label
- Other Resources
- Choose My Plate (USDA)
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans (Dietary Guidelines)
