Diet for Cardiovascular Bypass Surgery

I underwent angioplasty two years ago.



Can you tell me what should be my diet now?

Diet is a very important aspect to prevent further complications related to heart diseases. Besides your medications follow the dietary and lifestyle modifications mentioned below –

Angioplasty Treatment and Diet for Recovery from Angioplasty

• Lose weight if you are above your ideal body weight. Losing just few pounds can decrease your risk of heart diseases.
  
  
  
  However make weight loss a gradual process and avoid long periods of starvation, binging or fad diets altogether.
• Watch your lipid profile. If your cholesterol levels are in a bad shape try to correct them by eating right. Most of the cholesterol is synthesized in the body but your diet also has an impact on your cholesterol levels.
  
  
  
  Limit the intake of foods rich in cholesterol, saturated fats and trans fats as far as possible. Cholesterol is present only in animal food sources like shell fishes, meat, organ meats like kidney, brain and liver, poultry with skin and egg yolk. These foods are also high in proteins but the associated saturated fats and cholesterol can cause further problems so it is best to avoid them completely. For protein you can include good source of fats like fish, poultry without the skin, lean meat and egg whites in moderation.
• Cooking method also plays an important role. Use minimum amount of fat while preparing meals. Prepare food preferably using a non-stick pan and choose healthy methods of cooking like blanching, steaming, grilling over deep frying and shallow frying. Choose monounsaturated fatty acids (nuts, canola oil, olive oil and natural nut butters) or polyunsaturated fatty acids high in omega 3 fatty acids (canola oil, flaxseeds, walnuts and fatty fish) for different preparations.
• Avoid processed foods, products made from refined flour or white flour, junk foods, oily or fried foods, sugar, sweets, chocolates, bakery foods made from mayonnaise, butter, cream, sugar, carbonated beverages, sodas, colas, artificially sweetened fruit and vegetable juices and candies.
• Lay emphasis on healthy food options like whole unprocessed cereals, grains and its products, pulses, sprouts, beans, fresh fruits and vegetables and low fat or fat free dairy products. Whole foods and fresh fruits and vegetables will provide all the essential nutrients and fiber which will help to improve your lipid profile and nourish your body with different vitamins and minerals. Moreover these foods are also low in fats so they will not pose any health risk.
• Exercise is very important to keep your health in check.
  
  
  
  A regular exercise regime will not only help to improve your lipid profile but also help you lose weight and remain healthy. However before starting any exercise regime it is important to consult a health care professional.