Cardiac Info

Limit sodium (salt). ​

Too much salt in the diet can cause an increase in blood pressure. Uncontrolled blood pressure causes the heart to work harder which makes the body hold onto water. Too much water causes swelling and shortness of breath. ​

Avoid processed foods (i.e. American cheese), herb blends with salt, meat tenderizers, condiments (i.e. soy sauce, pickles, salad dressings), cured or brined meat (i.e. bacon).​

Limit Fat. High fat diets can cause high cholesterol and blood pressure which can lead to heart failure.​

Choose lean protein and dairy​

Chicken breast w/o skin, meat from the loin of the animal, 1% or skim milk, reduced fat (2%), margarine, low-fat ice cream, non-fat yogurt, low-fat cheeses​

Allowed = Turkey sausage​

Encourages high fiber foods. Eating a high fiber diet can help lower the blood cholesterol (LDL)​

Choose more fresh or frozen fruit and vegetables without additives (i.e. butter, sugar, sauces).​

Pre-packaged fruit in it’s own juice is acceptable​