Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians in M5J

Photo of Jackie Vykoukal, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MHSc
Jackie Vykoukal
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MHSc
Serves Area
Navigating a diagnosis of PCOS, reading conflicting information on IBS or managing menopausal symptoms can feel overwhelming! Guiding you through the noise in the information age to support your health journey is what I find incredibly rewarding as a dietitian and I want to be alongside you every step of the way.

 Throughout my career, I’ve recognized that people are more dynamic than their diagnoses so I utilize a holistic lens that acknowledges the role diet, food environment, sleep and mental well-being play in health.
Navigating a diagnosis of PCOS, reading conflicting information on IBS or managing menopausal symptoms can feel overwhelming! Guiding you through the noise in the information age to support your health journey is what I find incredibly rewarding as a dietitian and I want to be alongside you every step of the way.

 Throughout my career, I’ve recognized that people are more dynamic than their diagnoses so I utilize a holistic lens that acknowledges the role diet, food environment, sleep and mental well-being play in health.
(226) 910-1222 View (226) 910-1222
Photo of Theresa Silverthorn - CBT Wellness & Virtual Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
CBT Wellness & Virtual Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
(289) 723-1959 View (289) 723-1959
Photo of Anna Prestia, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Anna Prestia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
New patients welcome! I am a RD with over 20 years of experience providing expert nutrition care across all stages of life. have expertise spanning infant and pediatric nutrition, oncology, prenatal/post-natal nutrition, disordered eating, cardiac health, diabetes, weight management, weight concerns, cancer, GI conditions, allergies, anti-inflammatory nutrition & tube feedings. I have worked extensively in acute care hospital settings, as well as in outpatient clinics and private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence, supports symptoms, and strengthens a positive relationship with food.
New patients welcome! I am a RD with over 20 years of experience providing expert nutrition care across all stages of life. have expertise spanning infant and pediatric nutrition, oncology, prenatal/post-natal nutrition, disordered eating, cardiac health, diabetes, weight management, weight concerns, cancer, GI conditions, allergies, anti-inflammatory nutrition & tube feedings. I have worked extensively in acute care hospital settings, as well as in outpatient clinics and private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence, supports symptoms, and strengthens a positive relationship with food.
(289) 204-0170 View (289) 204-0170
Photo of Alyssa Vets, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD
Alyssa Vets
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD
Online Only
Are you tired of thinking about food all the time? Maybe you’ve tried countless diets, started over every Monday, or feel stuck in a cycle of “being good” and then losing control around food. You might find yourself emotionally eating, snacking out of boredom, or feeling guilty after eating certain foods. Or, you might feel like you know "what" to eat, but struggle to stick with it. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you’re not the problem. I’m a Registered Dietitian who helps chronic dieters and emotional eaters rebuild a peaceful, sustainable relationship with food using a non-diet, intuitive eating approach.
Are you tired of thinking about food all the time? Maybe you’ve tried countless diets, started over every Monday, or feel stuck in a cycle of “being good” and then losing control around food. You might find yourself emotionally eating, snacking out of boredom, or feeling guilty after eating certain foods. Or, you might feel like you know "what" to eat, but struggle to stick with it. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you’re not the problem. I’m a Registered Dietitian who helps chronic dieters and emotional eaters rebuild a peaceful, sustainable relationship with food using a non-diet, intuitive eating approach.
View

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Maxwell Alan Snider, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Maxwell Alan Snider
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Serves Area
My mission is to empower you to take control of your health, well-being, and athletic performance through personalized nutrition that fits seamlessly into your life. I’m passionate about working with busy adults who want to improve their health without sacrificing all their free time. If you're tired of wasting your time following restrive diets I'm here to help you find a better way. Let’s create a plan that works for you. Book a free discovery call to see if my services are the right fit for you. Virtual appointments are available!
My mission is to empower you to take control of your health, well-being, and athletic performance through personalized nutrition that fits seamlessly into your life. I’m passionate about working with busy adults who want to improve their health without sacrificing all their free time. If you're tired of wasting your time following restrive diets I'm here to help you find a better way. Let’s create a plan that works for you. Book a free discovery call to see if my services are the right fit for you. Virtual appointments are available!
(249) 444-8474 View (249) 444-8474
Photo of Vanessa Hurley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Vanessa Hurley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
I love working with individuals across the lifespan & have experience with chronic disease prevention (diabetes, heart health, cancer), women’s health (pregnancy, fertility, PCOS, menopause), infant/child/teen health (introduction to solids, feeding relationship, selective eating), special dietary restrictions, allergies/intolerances & digestive concerns.
I am accepting NEW patients for phone & video sessions for people of all ages 0+. I have 20+ years of experience providing evidence-based food & nutrition advice as well as compassionate care to infants, kids, teens, adults & seniors. I will work with you to create the best possible plan to meet your food & nutrition goals. Healthy eating is not just what you eat, but also why & how you eat. I can also work with you on ensuring you develop & maintain a heathy relationship with food, while integrating intuitive eating principles & mindful eating strategies. Let’s work together to make positive & lasting changes to your health.
I love working with individuals across the lifespan & have experience with chronic disease prevention (diabetes, heart health, cancer), women’s health (pregnancy, fertility, PCOS, menopause), infant/child/teen health (introduction to solids, feeding relationship, selective eating), special dietary restrictions, allergies/intolerances & digestive concerns.
I am accepting NEW patients for phone & video sessions for people of all ages 0+. I have 20+ years of experience providing evidence-based food & nutrition advice as well as compassionate care to infants, kids, teens, adults & seniors. I will work with you to create the best possible plan to meet your food & nutrition goals. Healthy eating is not just what you eat, but also why & how you eat. I can also work with you on ensuring you develop & maintain a heathy relationship with food, while integrating intuitive eating principles & mindful eating strategies. Let’s work together to make positive & lasting changes to your health.
(365) 544-5153 View (365) 544-5153
Photo of Emily Campbell - Emily Campbell/Kidney Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MScFN, RD, CDE
Emily Campbell/Kidney Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MScFN, RD, CDE
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator who specializes in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and the owner of Kidney Nutrition. My team and I at Kidney Nutrition help those with CKD overcome the confusing world of nutrition so they can improve their kidney function.
I am a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator who specializes in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and the owner of Kidney Nutrition. My team and I at Kidney Nutrition help those with CKD overcome the confusing world of nutrition so they can improve their kidney function.
View
Photo of Brittany McMullan - Brittany McMullan | Diabetes Educator & Dietitian, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CDE, RD
Brittany McMullan | Diabetes Educator & Dietitian
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CDE, RD
5 Endorsed
Online Only
New clients welcome, book a chat today! Have you had a recent diagnosis of prediabetes/diabetes that has you feeling overwhelmed? Have you been told you have high blood pressure or cholesterol? Whether you're currently managing a condition, or simply trying to eat better with your family, I can help with your goals! As a Certified Diabetes Educator, I work with clients virtually across Ontario to find ways to make gradual, "DO-ABLE" changes to lower AIC and improve their health. I take a non-judgmental approach to nutrition, and use an "all-foods-fit" philosophy. I promote balance, not restriction, when it comes to healthy eating!
New clients welcome, book a chat today! Have you had a recent diagnosis of prediabetes/diabetes that has you feeling overwhelmed? Have you been told you have high blood pressure or cholesterol? Whether you're currently managing a condition, or simply trying to eat better with your family, I can help with your goals! As a Certified Diabetes Educator, I work with clients virtually across Ontario to find ways to make gradual, "DO-ABLE" changes to lower AIC and improve their health. I take a non-judgmental approach to nutrition, and use an "all-foods-fit" philosophy. I promote balance, not restriction, when it comes to healthy eating!
View
Photo of Luksamon Supanathaporn, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PharmD
Luksamon Supanathaporn
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PharmD
Online Only
As a certified nutritionist and former pharmacist, I help people improve their health through food—not medication. I understand how overwhelming it can be to manage chronic conditions or make lasting lifestyle changes. That’s why my approach focuses on realistic, personalized nutrition that fits your life. Whether your goal is to prevent disease, boost energy, or feel confident in your eating habits, I’ll guide you with evidence-based strategies and support every step of the way—so you can enjoy food, feel good, and live well.
As a certified nutritionist and former pharmacist, I help people improve their health through food—not medication. I understand how overwhelming it can be to manage chronic conditions or make lasting lifestyle changes. That’s why my approach focuses on realistic, personalized nutrition that fits your life. Whether your goal is to prevent disease, boost energy, or feel confident in your eating habits, I’ll guide you with evidence-based strategies and support every step of the way—so you can enjoy food, feel good, and live well.
(647) 492-1490 View (647) 492-1490
Photo of Kristie Pun, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHSc, RD
Kristie Pun
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHSc, RD
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Or are you seeking evidence-based advice to manage your health or a specific chronic health condition (i.e. diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, gout, etc.)?
I can work with you to find evidence-based solutions to your nutrition questions, whether that is deciphering nutrition advice found online, in the media or from other sources. When it comes to counselling, I take a client-focused approach that considers your needs, preferences and nutrition goals. Contrary to some beliefs, all foods can fit into your diet!
Or are you seeking evidence-based advice to manage your health or a specific chronic health condition (i.e. diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, gout, etc.)?
I can work with you to find evidence-based solutions to your nutrition questions, whether that is deciphering nutrition advice found online, in the media or from other sources. When it comes to counselling, I take a client-focused approach that considers your needs, preferences and nutrition goals. Contrary to some beliefs, all foods can fit into your diet!
(289) 806-5156 View (289) 806-5156
Photo of Christine Devaney Towsley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, BASc, RD
Christine Devaney Towsley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, BASc, RD
Online Only
Specialty: Intuitive Eating, Weight Concerns, Emotional Eating, Heart Health, Kids/Family Nutrition, IBS / Digestive Health, Women’s Health, Pre/Post Natal, Metabolic Disease, Chronic Disease A nurturer at heart, Christine will always greet you with a smile and attentive ear.
Christine is one of the experienced Registered Dietitians on the Health Stand Nutrition Team. Since 2000, our compassionate team has provided personal nutrition counseling at our local office in Calgary and virtually by phone or video conferencing across Canada and globally. Our dietitians specialize in a wide range of areas.
Specialty: Intuitive Eating, Weight Concerns, Emotional Eating, Heart Health, Kids/Family Nutrition, IBS / Digestive Health, Women’s Health, Pre/Post Natal, Metabolic Disease, Chronic Disease A nurturer at heart, Christine will always greet you with a smile and attentive ear.
Christine is one of the experienced Registered Dietitians on the Health Stand Nutrition Team. Since 2000, our compassionate team has provided personal nutrition counseling at our local office in Calgary and virtually by phone or video conferencing across Canada and globally. Our dietitians specialize in a wide range of areas.
(800) 268-9487 View (800) 268-9487
Photo of Alexis Silver - Lex Talk Nutrition (Alexis S), Nutritionist/Dietitian, BASc, MPH, RD
Lex Talk Nutrition (Alexis S)
Nutritionist/Dietitian, BASc, MPH, RD
Online Only
I have supported hundreds of clients in rebuilding trust with food while improving blood sugar control, heart health, energy, mood, and overall health outcomes using a weight-inclusive, non-diet approach.
Are you feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed when it comes to eating? Are you confused by the constant messages about food, dieting, and health? Are you looking for support managing a chronic condition, such as pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, or hypertension, while also building a more peaceful relationship with food? If so, you’re in the right place.
I have supported hundreds of clients in rebuilding trust with food while improving blood sugar control, heart health, energy, mood, and overall health outcomes using a weight-inclusive, non-diet approach.
Are you feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed when it comes to eating? Are you confused by the constant messages about food, dieting, and health? Are you looking for support managing a chronic condition, such as pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, or hypertension, while also building a more peaceful relationship with food? If so, you’re in the right place.
(289) 206-9146 View (289) 206-9146
Photo of Nicole Durand, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDE
Nicole Durand
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDE
Online Only
Hi, I’m Nicole. I’m a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator. For the past 10 years, I have supported patients with diabetes and various other chronic diseases and nutrition concerns in making diet changes and improving their health and quality of life. I have also worked with children and families and would love to help you lessen food related stressors in the home by disentangling the confusing and often contradictory nutrition information available, providing meal planning strategies and addressing “picky eating”.
Hi, I’m Nicole. I’m a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator. For the past 10 years, I have supported patients with diabetes and various other chronic diseases and nutrition concerns in making diet changes and improving their health and quality of life. I have also worked with children and families and would love to help you lessen food related stressors in the home by disentangling the confusing and often contradictory nutrition information available, providing meal planning strategies and addressing “picky eating”.
(647) 691-6703 View (647) 691-6703
Photo of Theresa Silverthorn, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Theresa Silverthorn
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
6 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5W
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
(289) 271-3480 View (289) 271-3480
Photo of Misha Roy - CBT Wellness & Virtual Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
CBT Wellness & Virtual Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6Y
Accepting NEW clients. Do you want more energy, less stress around food & more confidence that what you eat is truly supporting your health? Are you struggling in managing diabetes, digestive issues, or food intolerances? Are you having difficulty navigating weight changes, pregnancy, postpartum recovery or building strength for sports and fitness? Maybe you're balancing complex needs like food allergies, hypertension, or diabetes. You're in the right place & we can help. Our dietitians have 15+ years of experience helping individuals & families find realistic, enjoyable & sustainable ways to eat well without strict diets.
Accepting NEW clients. Do you want more energy, less stress around food & more confidence that what you eat is truly supporting your health? Are you struggling in managing diabetes, digestive issues, or food intolerances? Are you having difficulty navigating weight changes, pregnancy, postpartum recovery or building strength for sports and fitness? Maybe you're balancing complex needs like food allergies, hypertension, or diabetes. You're in the right place & we can help. Our dietitians have 15+ years of experience helping individuals & families find realistic, enjoyable & sustainable ways to eat well without strict diets.
(365) 799-6873 View (365) 799-6873
Photo of Rowena Leung, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDE
Rowena Leung
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDE
Markham, ON L3R
I am very familiar with a busy schedule as I am a mother of 2 young children, a fur parent to a mini golden doodle and am working full time. I have close to 15 years of experience working with all segments of the population ranging from prenatal, postpartum, pre-school children, school aged children (K-12), university students, young professionals and retired individuals. If an individual wants culturally competent services, I am able to provide services in Cantonese, Mandarin and English. I also work with clients who would like to incorporate more Asian inspired cuisine into their diet.
I am very familiar with a busy schedule as I am a mother of 2 young children, a fur parent to a mini golden doodle and am working full time. I have close to 15 years of experience working with all segments of the population ranging from prenatal, postpartum, pre-school children, school aged children (K-12), university students, young professionals and retired individuals. If an individual wants culturally competent services, I am able to provide services in Cantonese, Mandarin and English. I also work with clients who would like to incorporate more Asian inspired cuisine into their diet.
(289) 276-5979 View (289) 276-5979
Photo of Laura Baum, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDE, MScFN
Laura Baum
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDE, MScFN
Toronto, ON M6A
I am a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator who helps clients navigate their health journey one step at a time. Together, we set individualized, sustainable goals to make a larger lifestyle change. Laura's practice is about building comfortable habits in a way that allows you to enjoy your life while also being mindful of your health. Book online today for your complimentary 15-minute consult!
I am a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator who helps clients navigate their health journey one step at a time. Together, we set individualized, sustainable goals to make a larger lifestyle change. Laura's practice is about building comfortable habits in a way that allows you to enjoy your life while also being mindful of your health. Book online today for your complimentary 15-minute consult!
(647) 360-5072 View (647) 360-5072
Photo of Vanessa Hurley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Vanessa Hurley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
6 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5N
I love working with individuals across the lifespan & have experience with chronic disease prevention (diabetes, heart health, cancer), women’s health (pregnancy, fertility, PCOS, menopause), infant/child/teen health (introduction to solids, feeding relationship, selective eating), special dietary restrictions, allergies/intolerances & digestive concerns.
I am accepting NEW patients for phone/video sessions for people of all ages 0+. I have 20+ years of experience providing evidence-based food & nutrition advice as well as compassionate care to infants, kids, teens, adults & seniors. I will work with you to create the best possible plan to meet your food & nutrition goals. Healthy eating is not just what you eat, but also why & how you eat. I can also work with you on ensuring you develop & maintain a heathy relationship with food, while integrating intuitive eating principles & mindful eating strategies. Let’s work together to make positive & lasting changes to your health.
I love working with individuals across the lifespan & have experience with chronic disease prevention (diabetes, heart health, cancer), women’s health (pregnancy, fertility, PCOS, menopause), infant/child/teen health (introduction to solids, feeding relationship, selective eating), special dietary restrictions, allergies/intolerances & digestive concerns.
I am accepting NEW patients for phone/video sessions for people of all ages 0+. I have 20+ years of experience providing evidence-based food & nutrition advice as well as compassionate care to infants, kids, teens, adults & seniors. I will work with you to create the best possible plan to meet your food & nutrition goals. Healthy eating is not just what you eat, but also why & how you eat. I can also work with you on ensuring you develop & maintain a heathy relationship with food, while integrating intuitive eating principles & mindful eating strategies. Let’s work together to make positive & lasting changes to your health.
(289) 276-6973 View (289) 276-6973
Photo of Sana Motlekar, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Sana Motlekar
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Toronto, ON M4M
Sana provides evidence-based nutrition counselling through an individualized coaching approach centered on a client’s unique needs and goals. She works closely with her clients to empower them to find a pattern of eating that will support their mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. Her core mission is to help people develop the fundamental skills for long-term behavior change. During your sessions with Sana, she will help you curate an eating plan that takes into account your goals, budget, lifestyle and food preferences. She is well versed in various cultural cuisines and will ensure that your cultural dietary needs/restriction
Sana provides evidence-based nutrition counselling through an individualized coaching approach centered on a client’s unique needs and goals. She works closely with her clients to empower them to find a pattern of eating that will support their mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. Her core mission is to help people develop the fundamental skills for long-term behavior change. During your sessions with Sana, she will help you curate an eating plan that takes into account your goals, budget, lifestyle and food preferences. She is well versed in various cultural cuisines and will ensure that your cultural dietary needs/restriction
(647) 694-1147 View (647) 694-1147
Photo of Anna Prestia, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Anna Prestia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Markham, ON L3R
Accepting NEW patients-next day appts available for phone & video sessions. I have 20+ years experience as a Registered Dietitian with a wide range of experiences. I specialize in infant, pediatric & adult nutrition for people 0-99. I am well-versed in all chronic and acute diseases including cancer, diabetes, eating disorders, infant feeding/introducing solids/picky eating, fad diets (keto), weight management, IBS, and more. I have worked in acute care hospital settings, outpatient clinics & private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence, supports symptoms, and strengthens your relationship with food.
Accepting NEW patients-next day appts available for phone & video sessions. I have 20+ years experience as a Registered Dietitian with a wide range of experiences. I specialize in infant, pediatric & adult nutrition for people 0-99. I am well-versed in all chronic and acute diseases including cancer, diabetes, eating disorders, infant feeding/introducing solids/picky eating, fad diets (keto), weight management, IBS, and more. I have worked in acute care hospital settings, outpatient clinics & private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence, supports symptoms, and strengthens your relationship with food.
(289) 276-7737 View (289) 276-7737
Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians
How does nutrition affect heart health?
Nutrition plays a significant role in heart health, affecting conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Consuming too much saturated and trans fats can raise "bad" cholesterol levels, potentially leading to clogged arteries and heart disease. In addition, high-sugar and refined carb foods, common in the American diet, are often high in calories but low in nutrients. Abundant consumption of such foods can lead to conditions such as weight gain and diabetes, which put extra strain on the heart. Excess sodium intake is yet another dietary component that can impact heart health. Consumption of too much sodium can raise blood pressure, making the heart work harder. Conversely, eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats helps support heart health through the maintenance of healthy cholesterol levels and the reduction of inflammation.

What diet is best for heart health?
In general, experts recommend a plant-based diet high in fiber, healthy fats, and lean protein as the best nutrition approach to a heart healthy diet. The "Mediterranean diet," characterized by the consumption of lots of healthy fats, vegetables, beans, and whole grains is one common diet with abundant evidence supporting its efficacy in reducing blood cholesterol levels and preventing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is another common diet shown to reduce blood pressure and positively impact heart health; the DASH diet emphasizes the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low fat dairy products with a particular focus on reducing the consumption of saturated fats. Conversely, diets that include the consumption of large amounts of protein and fats—such as the keto diet and atkins diet—are generally not recommended for those with heart conditions or high cholesterol levels due to the high levels of saturated and trans fats such diets can include.

What foods increase one's risk of heart disease?
Foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as fatty meats, cream, butter, and pastries, can have a very negative impact on heart health. In addition, sweets, high-sugar drinks, and refined carbohydrates like white bread and pasta are usually good to avoid in order to positively impact heart health. Replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fat alternatives, such as consuming lean fish high in omega-3 fatty acids instead of red meat, is often a good strategy, as is replacing highly-processed and sugar-rich foods with alternative carbohydrates, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Why should someone with heart disease see a dietitian?
Dietitians are specifically trained to use diet modifications to manage health, so individuals with heart disease may greatly benefit from seeing a dietitian to improve their cardiac health. Dietitians can help clients identify foods that support heart health, such as whole grains, as well as help clients eliminate foods that can place a strain on the heart when consumed in large quantities over time, such as saturated and trans fats. Dietitians can also help hold clients accountable for their nutrition and provide resources for other lifestyle modifications that support heart health, such as exercise, smoking cessation, and alcohol consumption reduction. Additionally, dietitians can assist in managing other chronic diseases often associated with heart disease, such as kidney conditions or diabetes.