FEBRUARY 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.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 Decreased blood pressure can help reduce risk of heart disease.

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