Ask the Doctor: Best Diets for Hearth Health

Q: There are so many diets out there. Which do you recommend for heart health?

A: It can be confusing with so many products and different diets touting heart-healthy benefits. For many years now, an expert panel has recommended the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) as the best overall eating plan. I recommend the DASH diet to my patients and also let them know about the following strategies that can expand their heart-healthy food options. About a year ago, the DASH diet and the Mediterranean diet merged to become the MIND di-et—which also got high marks by nutrition experts. Both these approaches emphasize eating an abundance of col-orful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products and cutting back on red meat consumption. Instead, the recommendation is for fish and poultry. While nuts are also recommended, be aware that they contain a lot of calories. A few nuts go a long way. About a quarter cup, or a small handful, can contain about 200 calories. Limiting salt consumption is also wise for those with heart issues. A recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report stated that most adults consume too much salt. The new dietary guidelines suggest a limit of 2,300 milligrams per day, which is about a teaspoon. Avoiding processed foods reduces the amount of sodium, which helps control blood pressure in those who have hypertension. Also, know that canned beans can have a lot of sodium, rinsing them is helpful but switching to the sodium-free variety is even better.

Editor-in-Chief Jonathon Wanagat, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor, Division of Geriatrics

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