Heart failure is a condition that affects the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently. It often occurs as a result of other health problems, such as high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, or diabetes.

While there is no cure for heart failure, there are ways to manage it and reduce the risk of complications. One of the most effective strategies is to follow a heart-healthy diet that is rich in nutrients and low in unhealthy fats and sugars. Here’s what you need to know about the heart health diet and how it can help fight heart failure.

Understanding Heart Failure

The heart is a muscle that pumps blood throughout the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the cells. When the heart is healthy, it pumps efficiently and can meet the body’s demands for blood flow.

However, when the heart is weakened or damaged, it may not be able to pump effectively, leading to a condition called heart failure.

Heart failure can be caused by many factors, including:.

Coronary artery disease
High blood pressure
Diabetes
Heart attack
Valvular heart disease
Cardiomyopathy (disease of the heart muscle)

When the heart is weak, blood may back up in the lungs or other parts of the body, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs and feet.

While there is no cure for heart failure, medications, lifestyle changes, and other treatments can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life.

The Heart-Healthy Diet

Eating a heart-healthy diet is one of the most important ways to manage heart failure and reduce the risk of complications.

A heart-healthy diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats, and low in saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars. Here are some of the key components of the heart-healthy diet:.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help protect the heart and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Aim for at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day, and try to include a variety of colors and types to ensure you’re getting a range of nutrients. Some good options include:.

Berries
Leafy greens
Cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli and cauliflower)
Citrus fruits
Tomatoes
Sweet potatoes

Whole Grains

Whole grains are an excellent source of fiber, which can help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. Choose whole-grain breads, cereals, pasta, and rice over refined options, which are stripped of their nutrient-rich bran and germ.

Some good options include:.

Whole-wheat bread
Brown rice
Quinoa
Whole-grain pasta
Oatmeal
Barley

Lean Protein

Protein is essential for building and maintaining muscle, but it’s important to choose lean sources that are low in unhealthy fats and cholesterol. Good options include:.

Skinless chicken and turkey
Fish (such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel)
Beans and legumes
Soy products (such as tofu and tempeh)
Eggs and egg whites

Healthy Fats

While it’s important to limit saturated and trans fats (found in foods like butter, cream, and fried foods), it’s also important to include healthy fats in your diet. These can help reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels.

Good sources of healthy fats include:.

Olive oil
Avocado
Nuts and seeds (such as almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds)
Fatty fish (such as salmon and mackerel)

Low Sodium

Sodium (found in salt and many processed foods) can contribute to high blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease. To reduce your sodium intake, try to:.

Choose fresh, unprocessed foods whenever possible
Use herbs and spices instead of salt to flavor your food
Limit your use of salt at the table and in cooking
Choose low-sodium versions of packaged foods (look for products with no more than 140 mg of sodium per serving)
Avoid adding salt to water when cooking pasta, rice, or vegetables

Putting It All Together

So what does a typical day of eating look like on the heart-healthy diet? Here’s an example:.

Breakfast: Oatmeal with fresh berries and a sprinkle of cinnamon
Snack: Carrot sticks with hummus
Lunch: Grilled chicken salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, avocado, and a drizzle of olive oil and vinegar
Snack: Apple slices with almond butter
Dinner: Baked salmon with quinoa and roasted vegetables
Dessert: Dark chocolate (in moderation)

The Bottom Line

Eating a heart-healthy diet is an essential part of managing heart failure and reducing the risk of complications. By following the guidelines above, you can ensure that your diet is rich in nutrients and low in unhealthy fats and sugars.

As always, it’s important to consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian to create a customized eating plan that meets your needs and preferences.