Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians in Peterborough, ON

Photo of Margaret Rose Avery, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, BSc, MSc
Margaret Rose Avery
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, BSc, MSc
1 Endorsed
Peterborough, ON K9H
“As a registered dietitian with over 30 years of experience, my primary focus is on providing specialized nutrition care to clients managing complex health conditions. I am dedicated to helping those facing major organ complications, including renal, cardiac, gastrointestinal, and endocrine challenges, to navigate their unique nutritional needs effectively. With a keen interest in genetics, I also emphasize the role of personalized nutrition, understanding that genetic factors can significantly influence health outcomes."
“As a registered dietitian with over 30 years of experience, my primary focus is on providing specialized nutrition care to clients managing complex health conditions. I am dedicated to helping those facing major organ complications, including renal, cardiac, gastrointestinal, and endocrine challenges, to navigate their unique nutritional needs effectively. With a keen interest in genetics, I also emphasize the role of personalized nutrition, understanding that genetic factors can significantly influence health outcomes."
(705) 710-2330 View (705) 710-2330
Photo of Theresa Silverthorn, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Theresa Silverthorn
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
Peterborough, ON K9J
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.
(647) 360-9366 View (647) 360-9366
Photo of Zuvia Naseem, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSc, RD, CDE
Zuvia Naseem
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSc, RD, CDE
Online Only
I am your Dietitian (member of Dietitians of Canada) and Certified Diabetes Educator. Need help with weight management? Eat better to manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol? Have digestive issues? BOOK YOUR VIRTUAL APPOINTMENT NOW!! Follow me on Instagram @zuviathedietitian and Face Book page: https://www.facebook.com/zuviathedietitian
I am your Dietitian (member of Dietitians of Canada) and Certified Diabetes Educator. Need help with weight management? Eat better to manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol? Have digestive issues? BOOK YOUR VIRTUAL APPOINTMENT NOW!! Follow me on Instagram @zuviathedietitian and Face Book page: https://www.facebook.com/zuviathedietitian
(289) 206-8718 View (289) 206-8718

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

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 Jackie Silver, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHSc, RD
Jackie Silver
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHSc, RD
Online Only
Hello there! I’m Jackie and I see clients 1:1 in my virtual private practice. My populations of expertise include neurodivergent kids, teens, and adults (Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, intellectual/developmental disabilities, Downs Syndrome). I am passionate about tailoring nutrition recommendations to neurodiverse clients that focus on their strengths and abilities. I’ve worked with people of all ages and ability levels in achieving their health and nutrition goals with a weight-inclusive, neuro-affirming approach. I'd be thrilled to support you!
Hello there! I’m Jackie and I see clients 1:1 in my virtual private practice. My populations of expertise include neurodivergent kids, teens, and adults (Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, intellectual/developmental disabilities, Downs Syndrome). I am passionate about tailoring nutrition recommendations to neurodiverse clients that focus on their strengths and abilities. I’ve worked with people of all ages and ability levels in achieving their health and nutrition goals with a weight-inclusive, neuro-affirming approach. I'd be thrilled to support you!
(647) 496-6053 View (647) 496-6053
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 Simin Ghoreishi, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDE, MPH (c)
Simin Ghoreishi
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDE, MPH (c)
Markham, ON L3R
From managing diabetes, PCOS, or fatty liver to prenatal care and heart health, I'll help you achieve lasting results and improve your quality of life.
Are you looking to take control of your health through nutrition and lifestyle changes? Together, we can create a personalized plan with enjoyable foods tailored to your needs. I specialize in managing conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, PCOS, fatty liver, and more, as well as providing support for weight management, prenatal/postnatal nutrition, and senior care. My goal is to address the root causes of your health concerns, helping you experience a higher quality of life through sustainable, realistic changes.
From managing diabetes, PCOS, or fatty liver to prenatal care and heart health, I'll help you achieve lasting results and improve your quality of life.
Are you looking to take control of your health through nutrition and lifestyle changes? Together, we can create a personalized plan with enjoyable foods tailored to your needs. I specialize in managing conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, PCOS, fatty liver, and more, as well as providing support for weight management, prenatal/postnatal nutrition, and senior care. My goal is to address the root causes of your health concerns, helping you experience a higher quality of life through sustainable, realistic changes.
(647) 370-8268 View (647) 370-8268
Photo of Vanessa Hurley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Vanessa Hurley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
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.
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.
(343) 655-0646 View (343) 655-0646
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 Binta Balde, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MSc(c)
Binta Balde
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MSc(c)
Online Only
You might be someone who feels overwhelmed by nutrition information that wasn’t designed with your culture, body or lived experience in mind. Maybe you’re navigating PCOS, endometriosis, fertility concerns, or hormonal changes. Or you may be active and training regularly, wanting nutrition support that helps you feel strong and energized—without having to give up the foods that bring you joy and belonging. Many of the people I work with have felt unseen, dismissed, or boxed into one-size-fits-all advice that simply doesn’t work in real life.
You might be someone who feels overwhelmed by nutrition information that wasn’t designed with your culture, body or lived experience in mind. Maybe you’re navigating PCOS, endometriosis, fertility concerns, or hormonal changes. Or you may be active and training regularly, wanting nutrition support that helps you feel strong and energized—without having to give up the foods that bring you joy and belonging. Many of the people I work with have felt unseen, dismissed, or boxed into one-size-fits-all advice that simply doesn’t work in real life.
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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 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 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 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 Anna Prestia, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Anna Prestia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new clients! I have 20 years of experience providing nutrition counselling to people of all ages. 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.
Accepting new clients! I have 20 years of experience providing nutrition counselling to people of all ages. 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.
(365) 650-6182 View (365) 650-6182
Photo of Joanne Zhou, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CDE
Joanne Zhou
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CDE
Online Only
I work with clients that are either are newly diagnosed with IBS or have had IBS for a while and just starting to get a handle on it. They may need support learning to manage it from beginning to end or just need a little support and feedback. In the end, I work with clients on their goals based on where they are at and need. I take a techy-approach using app-based food logs and messaging.
I work with clients that are either are newly diagnosed with IBS or have had IBS for a while and just starting to get a handle on it. They may need support learning to manage it from beginning to end or just need a little support and feedback. In the end, I work with clients on their goals based on where they are at and need. I take a techy-approach using app-based food logs and messaging.
(437) 476-2674 View (437) 476-2674
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
Photo of Vanessa Hurley - CBT Wellness & Virtual Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
CBT Wellness & Virtual Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
Online Only
We 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.
NEW patients welcome! Do you need help managing your chronic health diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease or obesity? Is your goal to lower your high blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol or weight? Do you want to improve your overall relationship with food, recover from an eating disorder, boost your energy levels or feel more confident in your body? Are you overwhelmed or unsure how to introduce solids or allergens to your baby? You have come to the right place-we can help you reach your goals! We provide personalized nutrition care + meal plans tailored to your unique lifestyle & food preferences.
We 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.
NEW patients welcome! Do you need help managing your chronic health diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease or obesity? Is your goal to lower your high blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol or weight? Do you want to improve your overall relationship with food, recover from an eating disorder, boost your energy levels or feel more confident in your body? Are you overwhelmed or unsure how to introduce solids or allergens to your baby? You have come to the right place-we can help you reach your goals! We provide personalized nutrition care + meal plans tailored to your unique lifestyle & food preferences.
(289) 312-3565 View (289) 312-3565
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 Sandra Edwards, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLT
Sandra Edwards
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLT
Markham, ON L3R
As a Registered Dietitian I help my clients achieve a healthier lifestyle. My ideal client wants increased energy, weight loss without deprivation, less medication, improved blood cholesterol, balanced blood sugars, reduced stress levels, increased physical activity and feelings of well-being. She may have been on numerous diets and struggling with work/life balance. She has discovered that restrictive diets simply don't work. She is ready to embark on a healthy lifestyle approach. Best results with a 3 mo, 6 mo and 12 month health coaching plan.
As a Registered Dietitian I help my clients achieve a healthier lifestyle. My ideal client wants increased energy, weight loss without deprivation, less medication, improved blood cholesterol, balanced blood sugars, reduced stress levels, increased physical activity and feelings of well-being. She may have been on numerous diets and struggling with work/life balance. She has discovered that restrictive diets simply don't work. She is ready to embark on a healthy lifestyle approach. Best results with a 3 mo, 6 mo and 12 month health coaching plan.
(416) 937-1458 View (416) 937-1458
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.