7 Dietary Tips to Protect Heart Health

Unconsciously applied very low-calorie shock diets can lead to serious illnesses and results that can lead to loss of life.

Slimming with long-term hunger, irregular weight gain and loss, diet plans based on a single nutrient or drug support puts cardiovascular health in danger. Specialist from Memorial Antalya Hospital Cardiology Department. Dr. Nuri Cömert gave information about the negative effects of wrong diet programs on the occasion of “September 29, World Heart Day” and made important suggestions for heart health.

There may be a risk of sudden heart attack following shock diets

Intermittent shock diets; It can lead to heart rhythm problems by causing the body's sodium and potassium balance to deteriorate. Complaints such as palpitations, feeling of badness, dizziness, and blackout may occur in people who develop rhythm problems. Long periods of hunger disrupt the metabolic balance of the person, cause blood pressure fluctuations and blood sugar irregularities. This can lead to sudden heart attacks.

Irregular weight loss can cause diabetes in the long term

Permanent excess weight resulting from irregular weight gain and loss may increase the risk of diabetes by causing insulin resistance. Diabetes is one of the main risk factors that cause cardiovascular diseases. In protein-containing diets, the body fat balance is disrupted and the risk of high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease occurs. Diets for drinking water only can lead to unconsciousness, called water poisoning.

Proper Vitamin D supplementation can prolong life

Some of the supportive drugs used for weight loss have a triggering effect on heart rhythm problems. Therefore, they should be used under the supervision of a specialist. When trying to lose weight with diuretic drugs, the body's electrolyte balance, ie sodium-potassium balance, deteriorates and rhythm problems may occur. There are many studies showing that low vitamin D levels in the body are related to shortening life span. Supplements to be taken by learning the vitamin D level can increase immunity and contribute to life span.

Moderate weight loss should be targeted

In order to avoid all these negative effects, reasonable weight loss should be targeted in the long term and in a controlled manner instead of shock diets. The diet program should be arranged with a nutrition and diet specialist; Permanent weight loss should be ensured with the support of an appropriate exercise program. Especially the Mediterranean diet targets a heart-friendly nutrition program. Taking the Mediterranean diet as a basis significantly reduces the possibility of developing heart disease.

Pay attention to these to protect heart health

1. Try to eat more fruits and vegetables. Aim to eat at least 5 servings of fruit and vegetables a day. Choose whole grains.
2. Use healthy oils and do not cook with burnt fat.
3. Try to consume more seafood. Eat fish twice a week. Avoid grilled fish.
4. Reduce your red meat consumption. If you are going to eat meat, choose lean and keep the portions small.
5. Make sure to regularly consume fish and poultry meat.
6. Choose low-fat dairy products. Go for natural yoghurt and cheeses that are not too fatty.
7. Color your plate. Herbs and spices increase the flavor of your food and reduce the need for salt.