A recent study revealed that not only does a healthy diet reduce the risk of a first-time heart attack; it can also reduce the risk of repeat heart attacks for those who already have heart disease. Most people understand the importance of a healthy diet, but according to the study, it’s wise to maintain that healthy way of living and especially so after suffering from a heart attack.
“At times, patients don’t think they need to follow a healthy diet, since their medications have already lowered their blood pressure and cholesterol—that is wrong,” Mahshid Dehghan, a study author and a nutritionist at the Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, said in an article published by the Wall Street Journal. “The more healthy you eat, the healthier you are.”
The study followed participants at least 55 years old or older who had a prior history of heart disease severe enough to have damaged organs. Those with the highest intake of fruit, vegetables, whole grains and nuts plus those with a higher intake of fish compared to meat, poultry and eggs were found to be 14% less likely to have additional heart attacks.
“The group considers a heart-healthy diet to include more than four cups of fruits and vegetables, and at least three servings of whole grains daily, in addition to limiting intake of sodium and sugar-sweetened beverages,” the WSJ article relayed. “At least two servings of fish and four servings of nuts or seeds are recommended each week, along with limiting processed meat to no more than two servings a week.”
We here at Freedom Home Care want our patients to live long and healthy lives and are happy to make recommendations for anyone who might not be sure how to achieve a balanced diet. So be sure to reach out to us. Or, to read the WSJ article in its entirety, head here.