The ideal diet for people with heart disease, also known as the heart-healthy diet, is part of the precautions for heart disease. This diet focuses on improving cardiovascular health, controlling cholesterol levels, and bringing down blood pressure levels. This diet is also focused on weight management. Let’s take a look at heart-healthy diet plan:

1. More of plant-based preparations – this is one of the main focus areas, i.e. to increase intake of plant based food. A variety of fruits and vegetables are recommended, especially leafy greens, berries, oranges, and carrots. Patients are increase whole grains such as brown rice, oats, whole wheat, barley, and quinoa, rich high in fiber, to lower cholesterol levels. Legumes like beans, lentils, and peas are known to be the ideal sources of protein and fiber with lesser fat.
2. Stick to healthy fats – such as fat from olive oil, avocado, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish lower LDL cholesterol while increasing HDL cholesterol levels. Saturated fats intake is to be controlled significantly, for instance intake of red meat, butter, full-fat dairy products, and processed foods are to be limited.  Trans fats found in fried and processed foods are to be removed from diet. This is known to increase risk of heart disease by increasing LDL cholesterol levels and lowering HDL cholesterol.
3. Intake of Omega-3 fatty acids – this is known to be heart-friendly fats that reduce inflammation, lowering risk of heart disease. This is typically found in salmon, mackerel, sardines, flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and fish oil supplements.
4. Cut down salt – high sodium levels will elevate your blood pressure, that happens to be a major risk factor for heart disease. Ensure that your daily intake is lesser than 2,300 mg of sodium, and if possible, below 1,500 mg per day for optimum blood pressure control.
5. Lean proteins – most people may find it difficult to understand the term lean proteins. Essentially, this includes skinless poultry, lean cuts of beef and tenderloin of pork. If your dietary preferences are vegetarian, then choose beans, lentils, and tofu as alternatives. Ensure that you take fish twice a week, for your supply of heart-healthy omega-3s.
6. Other changes – include cutting down on added sugars, such as soda, coffee drinks, and sweetened juices. Limit portion sizes, and be aware of calorie-dense foods such as nuts, oils, and whole grains. Keep away from alcohol, as it is a contributor to risk.