FEBRUARY 2006FEBRUARY 2006

Heart Disease

• The #1 killer among Americans

• Almost ¼ of Americans have some form of cardiovascular disease

• Almost 6 million hospitalizations each year are due to cardiovascular disease

• Healthcare costs for heart diseases in 2003 were estimated at $351 billion

www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/bb_heartdisease/index.htmwww.cdc.gov/nccdphp/bb_heartdisease/index.htm

Eating for a Healthy Heart

Eat Less Fat

Fats more likely to increase risk of heart disease include:

• Fats from animals:– Meats– Milk– Cheese– Butter

• Also foods containing palm and coconut oil

Eat Less Sodium

• Eating less sodium can help lower blood pressure

• We do need sodium in our diet, but not as much as most Americans consume

• Avoid adding salt to foods at the table

Eat Fewer Calories

• Eating more calories than the body needs results in weight gain

• Being overweight can increase risk of developing heart disease

• Eating fewer calories helps in weight loss

Eat More Fiber

• Fiber may help lower chances of developing heart disease

• Find fiber in:– Fruits– Vegetables– Whole grains

Diet Tips for a Healthy Heart

• Eat a diet low in saturated fats, especially animal fats and palm and coconut oils

• Add foods that are high in monounsaturated fats such as olive and canola oils and seafood

• Eat foods containing polyunsaturated fats found in plants and seafood; safflower and corn oil are good sources

Diet Tips for a Healthy Heart

• Choose a diet moderate in salt and sodium

• Maintain or improve your weight

• Eat plenty of whole grain products, fruits, and vegetables

• Eat a variety of foods!

Read Food Labels

• Food labels can help you eat less fat, sodium, calories, and more fiber

• Look for certain words on labels:– Fat free– Saturated fat free– Low saturated fat – Low sodium– Unsalted– Light– Reduced calorie– High fiber

More Tips for a Healthy Heart

• Have cholesterol levels checked; less than 200 is good

• Get regular exercise

• If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation

• For more information visit:– www.fda.gov– www.cdc.gov