Heart-healthy diets prioritize foods that are beneficial for the heart and limit those that are not. Here are some key points from the search results:
Foods to Eat:
- Vegetables and fruits
- Whole grains
- Lean proteins, such as fish, poultry, lean meats, beans, peas, and lentils
- Healthy fats and oils, such as vegetable oil, nuts, seeds, and avocados
Foods to Limit:
- Saturated fats, found in red meat, butter, cheese, and whole-fat dairy products
- Processed foods that are high in sugar and salt
- Added sugars, especially in sugar-sweetened foods and beverages
It is also important to read nutrition labels and choose foods with less sodium, added sugars, and saturated fat. The American Heart Association recommends choosing minimally processed foods and preparing meals with little or no salt. Additionally, it is recommended to limit or avoid alcohol intake.
Overall, a heart-healthy diet should include a variety of nutrient-rich foods, with an emphasis on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. It is also important to limit or avoid foods that are high in saturated fat, added sugars, and salt.