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NetWellness provides the highest quality health information and education services created and evaluated by faculty of our partner universities.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
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Heart Failure |
Heart Healthy Dieting01/07/2009 |
The question: I understand that there is a diet that will remove arterial deposits. Is this correct? If correct, where can I get a copy of the diet? Background: I just completed a stress test and have been diagnosed as likely having blockage of the coronary artery on the right side of my heart. I understand that the degree of blockage is approximately 20%. The stress test confirmed changes in my electrocardiogram and the symptoms that I experience, from time to time. Medical History: I am a 56-year-old male, am 5 feet 9 inches in height, and weigh 275 pounds. My life is very sedentary. Within the past few years, I became diabetic, for which I am medicated. I also take medication to reduce cholesterol and control high blood pressure. About ten years ago, I suffered a minor stroke from a clot. I have almost no residual affects. The stroke affected my gait. My parents died in their mid 70s. My father died of congestive heart failure and my mother died from a massive stroke (bleed). Both had coronary heart disease. I have one brother and do not know about his health. Additional Information: I am interested in this diet because I want to control this situation without medication or invasive treatment, if possible. Furthermore, I desire to change my life style to a much healthier one. I am under the care of a Cardiologist, as well as a family doctor. Any information that I obtain from you will be shared with my physicians and implementation under their supervision. In advance, thank you for your assistance.
Thanks for your questions. Given your complex medical history, I suggest you ask your doctor for a referral to a registered dietitian for diet therapy counseling. I cannot give individual advice on this site. Here are some basic guidelines for now. Limit or avoid foods high in fat and cholesterol including fried foods, fatty cuts of red meat, chicken skin, wings, cakes, pies, cookies, ice cream, fried snacks, fast foods and other high fat foods. Choose lower fat sources of protein such as tenderloin, round steak, skinless poultry, fish and dried beans. Beans are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which helps to reduce cholesterol. Try to include more fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your diet. Whole grains include oats, brown rice, and whole grain breads and cereals. A registered dietitian can give you more ideas based on your current diet and lifestyle. The links below may also be of use to you. Good luck!
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Lisa Cicciarello Andrews, MEd, RD, LD Adjunct Faculty University of Cincinnati |
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