Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians in N0H

Photo of Michaela Marie Harron, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSc, RD
Michaela Marie Harron
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSc, RD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am passionate about helping individuals make peace with food and reduce the stress around food. I believe in supporting the mental aspect of nourishment, as well as building sustainable habits to support wellness. No quick-fixes, but building a set of life-long skills to enhance your confidence with making food decisions that best support your needs. I practice using Intuitive Eating and HAES frameworks, and believe that every body shape and size is worthy. In my sessions, I incorporate body image work and tools to improve your relationship with food.
I am passionate about helping individuals make peace with food and reduce the stress around food. I believe in supporting the mental aspect of nourishment, as well as building sustainable habits to support wellness. No quick-fixes, but building a set of life-long skills to enhance your confidence with making food decisions that best support your needs. I practice using Intuitive Eating and HAES frameworks, and believe that every body shape and size is worthy. In my sessions, I incorporate body image work and tools to improve your relationship with food.
(249) 209-8367 View (249) 209-8367

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Carol Holland, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CBE
Carol Holland
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CBE
Online Only
I have over 17 years of experience providing nutrition counselling to people of all ages and stages of life, from pre-natal to palliative. I can help with any nutrition-related condition. Whether your goal is to manage blood pressure or cholesterol, prevent diabetes, lose weight or get your gut symptoms under control, together we'll create a personalized plan to help you take charge of your symptoms and get back to living your best life. I take a client-centered, non-judgmental approach that will challenge you to set goals, and I'll problem solve with you along the way. It’s about progress, not perfection!
I have over 17 years of experience providing nutrition counselling to people of all ages and stages of life, from pre-natal to palliative. I can help with any nutrition-related condition. Whether your goal is to manage blood pressure or cholesterol, prevent diabetes, lose weight or get your gut symptoms under control, together we'll create a personalized plan to help you take charge of your symptoms and get back to living your best life. I take a client-centered, non-judgmental approach that will challenge you to set goals, and I'll problem solve with you along the way. It’s about progress, not perfection!
(548) 325-8963 View (548) 325-8963
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. I 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. I 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) 401-1597 View (289) 401-1597
Photo of Natasha Beatson Registered Dietitian, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDE
Natasha Beatson Registered Dietitian
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDE
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether you have been struggling with an eating disorder diagnosis, chronic dieting or just simply want to improve your relationship with food and your body, we can work together on a personalized nourishment plan to get you closer to food freedom and living your best life.
Whether you have been struggling with an eating disorder diagnosis, chronic dieting or just simply want to improve your relationship with food and your body, we can work together on a personalized nourishment plan to get you closer to food freedom and living your best life.
(249) 202-2305 View (249) 202-2305

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

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 Misha Roy - CBT Wellness and Virtual Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
CBT Wellness and Virtual Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4T
Accepting NEW clients. Imagine your ideal health journey-You want more energy, less stress around food, and confidence that what you eat is truly supporting your health. Maybe you’re managing diabetes, digestive issues, or food intolerances. Perhaps you’re navigating weight changes, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or building strength for sports and fitness. You may even be balancing complex needs like food allergies, hypertension, or diabetes. This is where 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. Imagine your ideal health journey-You want more energy, less stress around food, and confidence that what you eat is truly supporting your health. Maybe you’re managing diabetes, digestive issues, or food intolerances. Perhaps you’re navigating weight changes, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or building strength for sports and fitness. You may even be balancing complex needs like food allergies, hypertension, or diabetes. This is where we can help. Our dietitians have 15+ years of experience helping individuals & families find realistic, enjoyable & sustainable ways to eat well without strict diets.
(289) 275-4567 View (289) 275-4567
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 Jackie Vykoukal, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MHSc
Jackie Vykoukal
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MHSc
Thornhill, ON L3T
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 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 Catherine Lin, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDE
Catherine Lin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDE
4 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4H
Accepting NEW patients for phone & video sessions-immediate openings! Are you tired of yo-yo dieting and constantly thinking about food? Do you want to ditch dieting for good and gain food freedom? Are you confused about what to eat? Do you want to break the cycle of overeating? We can work together to achieve your best weight and health using science based treatment and tools. I provide nutrition counselling in obesity management, diabetes management, digestive health, and chronic disease prevention and management. I have years of experience with helping individuals with making sustainable lifestyle changes.
Accepting NEW patients for phone & video sessions-immediate openings! Are you tired of yo-yo dieting and constantly thinking about food? Do you want to ditch dieting for good and gain food freedom? Are you confused about what to eat? Do you want to break the cycle of overeating? We can work together to achieve your best weight and health using science based treatment and tools. I provide nutrition counselling in obesity management, diabetes management, digestive health, and chronic disease prevention and management. I have years of experience with helping individuals with making sustainable lifestyle changes.
(289) 312-2924 View (289) 312-2924
Photo of Dawn Peacock, Nutritionist/Dietitian, BSc, RD
Dawn Peacock
Nutritionist/Dietitian, BSc, RD
Toronto, ON M7A
Specialty: Women’s Health, Weight Concerns, Emotional Eating, Menopause, Celiac Disease, Disordered Eating, Mental Health, ADHD, Autism, Bone Health, Meal Planning. Warm, genuine, and down-to-earth, Dawn Peacock is a Registered Dietitian with over 20 years of experience helping clients simplify nutrition, reduce food stress, and build confidence in their eating habits. Known for her practical, compassionate approach, Dawn helps clients cut through the noise around food and find realistic strategies that work in everyday life. She’s recognized for her ability to turn complex nutrition science into practical, doable steps.
Specialty: Women’s Health, Weight Concerns, Emotional Eating, Menopause, Celiac Disease, Disordered Eating, Mental Health, ADHD, Autism, Bone Health, Meal Planning. Warm, genuine, and down-to-earth, Dawn Peacock is a Registered Dietitian with over 20 years of experience helping clients simplify nutrition, reduce food stress, and build confidence in their eating habits. Known for her practical, compassionate approach, Dawn helps clients cut through the noise around food and find realistic strategies that work in everyday life. She’s recognized for her ability to turn complex nutrition science into practical, doable steps.
(587) 741-9727 View (587) 741-9727
Photo of Catherine Lin Rd, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Catherine Lin Rd
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
5 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
Accepting NEW patients-immediate openings! Are you tired of yo-yo dieting and constantly thinking about food? Do you want to ditch dieting for good and gain food freedom? Are you confused about what to eat? Do you want to break the cycle of overeating? We can work together to achieve your best weight and health using science based treatment and tools. I provide nutrition counselling in obesity management, diabetes management, digestive health, and chronic disease prevention and management. I have years of experience with helping individuals with making sustainable lifestyle changes.
Accepting NEW patients-immediate openings! Are you tired of yo-yo dieting and constantly thinking about food? Do you want to ditch dieting for good and gain food freedom? Are you confused about what to eat? Do you want to break the cycle of overeating? We can work together to achieve your best weight and health using science based treatment and tools. I provide nutrition counselling in obesity management, diabetes management, digestive health, and chronic disease prevention and management. I have years of experience with helping individuals with making sustainable lifestyle changes.
(289) 312-4847 View (289) 312-4847
Photo of Julie Mancuso - JM Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian
JM Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian
Mississauga, ON L5A
JM Nutrition is a nutritional counselling service by a diverse team of nutritionists and dietitians, each with their own areas of expertise and specialization. As a result, we are well-equipped to meet your exact needs, goals and preferences. Our team of nutritionists and registered dietitians regularly lend their expertise to national and international media outlets on numerous nutrition, health, wellness and fitness topics. Our highly personalized service receives high praise from our clients who come to us from all walks of life for matters pertaining to weight loss, digestive health, disease management, sports nutrition & more.
JM Nutrition is a nutritional counselling service by a diverse team of nutritionists and dietitians, each with their own areas of expertise and specialization. As a result, we are well-equipped to meet your exact needs, goals and preferences. Our team of nutritionists and registered dietitians regularly lend their expertise to national and international media outlets on numerous nutrition, health, wellness and fitness topics. Our highly personalized service receives high praise from our clients who come to us from all walks of life for matters pertaining to weight loss, digestive health, disease management, sports nutrition & more.
(905) 428-2315 View (905) 428-2315
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
Photo of Jana Spindler, Nutritionist/Dietitian, BSc, RD, CCC
Jana Spindler
Nutritionist/Dietitian, BSc, RD, CCC
Toronto, ON M2M
Specialty: Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Emotional Eating, Mental Health, Sports Nutrition, ADHD, & Women’s Health. Fitness enthusiast and lover of all things food, Jana is passionate about helping her clients improve their relationship with food and their body. She is a strong, motivational leader. Jana also offers the balance of a warm, supportive coaching style to nudge her clients from their comfort zone while feeling safe and supported. She is a Canadian Certified Counselor (CCC) and has a masters in Counseling Pyschology fulfilling her goal of being both a Dietitian and Therapist.
Specialty: Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Emotional Eating, Mental Health, Sports Nutrition, ADHD, & Women’s Health. Fitness enthusiast and lover of all things food, Jana is passionate about helping her clients improve their relationship with food and their body. She is a strong, motivational leader. Jana also offers the balance of a warm, supportive coaching style to nudge her clients from their comfort zone while feeling safe and supported. She is a Canadian Certified Counselor (CCC) and has a masters in Counseling Pyschology fulfilling her goal of being both a Dietitian and Therapist.
(800) 268-9487 View (800) 268-9487
Photo of Theresa Silverthorn - CBT Wellness & Virtual Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
CBT Wellness & Virtual Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6Y
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 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 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 Elke Sengmueller, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RN, BASc, BScN
Elke Sengmueller
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RN, BASc, BScN
Newmarket, ON L3Y
Waitlist for new clients
ALERT: Wait list CLOSED until August. N.B.: I do NOT offer weight loss counselling. I have worked over 25 years caring for Surgery, ICU, Gastroenterology, Paediatrics (newborn to teens), Eating Disorders (all ages), and Mental Health/Addictions/Trauma clients. I use my extensive clinical experience and current evidence-based research, combined with a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, to help motivated clients improve their physical and emotional health, while mending their relationship with food. I am also a Registered Nurse, which enhances my ability to provide comprehensive care.
ALERT: Wait list CLOSED until August. N.B.: I do NOT offer weight loss counselling. I have worked over 25 years caring for Surgery, ICU, Gastroenterology, Paediatrics (newborn to teens), Eating Disorders (all ages), and Mental Health/Addictions/Trauma clients. I use my extensive clinical experience and current evidence-based research, combined with a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, to help motivated clients improve their physical and emotional health, while mending their relationship with food. I am also a Registered Nurse, which enhances my ability to provide comprehensive care.
(905) 581-0911 View (905) 581-0911
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!
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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.