Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians in 60544

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Photo of Steve Ziganto, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Steve Ziganto
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Woodridge, IL 60517
At our first session, the average person tells me "I know what I need to do, I just wish I had the willpower to do it." Many rely on sheer willpower to accomplish their goals instead of learning how to make nutrition a simple and enjoyable process. Nutrition is not supposed to be this hard or guilt-inducing. It should primarily mold around your general life and preferences, not the other way around. My main approach to accomplish this is to build a basic understanding on why your old habits do not work, and why these new habits will work.
At our first session, the average person tells me "I know what I need to do, I just wish I had the willpower to do it." Many rely on sheer willpower to accomplish their goals instead of learning how to make nutrition a simple and enjoyable process. Nutrition is not supposed to be this hard or guilt-inducing. It should primarily mold around your general life and preferences, not the other way around. My main approach to accomplish this is to build a basic understanding on why your old habits do not work, and why these new habits will work.
(708) 840-8701 View (708) 840-8701
Photo of Brittany Norem, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Brittany Norem
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60638
Specialities include: Weight management, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, PCOS, Heart Healthy Eating, General Nutrition, High Cholesterol, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Celiac Disease, IBS, Vegetarian and Vegan diets.
Brittany is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with Health Loft who works collaboratively with clients to create life-long and sustainable changes. Brittany understands that change takes time and works with client’s to find this balance in nutrition and daily movement. Through open discussion during sessions, client's will learn how to establish daily patterns that ultimately create healthy habits for long-term success. Brittany believes there is no one perfect diet and works with you to find the dietary interventions best suited for your health journey.
Specialities include: Weight management, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, PCOS, Heart Healthy Eating, General Nutrition, High Cholesterol, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Celiac Disease, IBS, Vegetarian and Vegan diets.
Brittany is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with Health Loft who works collaboratively with clients to create life-long and sustainable changes. Brittany understands that change takes time and works with client’s to find this balance in nutrition and daily movement. Through open discussion during sessions, client's will learn how to establish daily patterns that ultimately create healthy habits for long-term success. Brittany believes there is no one perfect diet and works with you to find the dietary interventions best suited for your health journey.
(904) 467-7389 View (904) 467-7389
Photo of Carol Burtnack, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CEDS
Carol Burtnack
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CEDS
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
Carol is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist dedicated to supporting individuals in their recovery and health-driven goals. Her approach to nutrition emphasizes a size-inclusive framework, prioritizing peace with food and fostering a healthy relationship with the body. Carol utilizes patient-centered care to provide a non-diet approach to nutrition.
Carol is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist dedicated to supporting individuals in their recovery and health-driven goals. Her approach to nutrition emphasizes a size-inclusive framework, prioritizing peace with food and fostering a healthy relationship with the body. Carol utilizes patient-centered care to provide a non-diet approach to nutrition.
(904) 650-3991 View (904) 650-3991
Photo of Alexis Gonzalez, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Alexis Gonzalez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Alexis! I am a Health at Every Size-aligned Registered Dietitian specializing in disordered eating, substance use, and medical nutrition therapy. My counseling approach is weight-neutral, client-centered, and grounded in evidence-based practice. I believe every individual has the capacity to live free from the cycle of dieting and the pain of persistent body dissatisfaction. It is my belief that nourishing our bodies can be both empowering and enjoyable.
Hi, I’m Alexis! I am a Health at Every Size-aligned Registered Dietitian specializing in disordered eating, substance use, and medical nutrition therapy. My counseling approach is weight-neutral, client-centered, and grounded in evidence-based practice. I believe every individual has the capacity to live free from the cycle of dieting and the pain of persistent body dissatisfaction. It is my belief that nourishing our bodies can be both empowering and enjoyable.
(312) 584-3691 View (312) 584-3691
Photo of Ashley McTaggart, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Ashley McTaggart
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Formerly Ashley Evans. I am a Registered Dietitian and an alumna of Northern Illinois University. With over seven years of experience in the eating disorder field, I am deeply passionate about supporting individuals in their recovery journey. I began my nutrition career at a residential eating disorder facility in downtown Chicago and later expanded my expertise through roles in Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) levels of care. My nutrition philosophy emphasizes building a healthy and positive relationship with food, integrating mental, emotional, physical, and social health.
Formerly Ashley Evans. I am a Registered Dietitian and an alumna of Northern Illinois University. With over seven years of experience in the eating disorder field, I am deeply passionate about supporting individuals in their recovery journey. I began my nutrition career at a residential eating disorder facility in downtown Chicago and later expanded my expertise through roles in Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) levels of care. My nutrition philosophy emphasizes building a healthy and positive relationship with food, integrating mental, emotional, physical, and social health.
(773) 372-0099 View (773) 372-0099
Photo of Casey Bramble, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Casey Bramble
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60620
Casey specializes in weight management, anti-inflammatory nutrition, diabetes care, prenatal and postpartum nutrition, heart and kidney health, and malnutrition.
Casey is a compassionate Registered Dietitian (RD) dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health and well-being. Her ideal client is someone who is curious about improving their relationship with food and their body through sustainable nutrition practices.
Casey specializes in weight management, anti-inflammatory nutrition, diabetes care, prenatal and postpartum nutrition, heart and kidney health, and malnutrition.
Casey is a compassionate Registered Dietitian (RD) dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health and well-being. Her ideal client is someone who is curious about improving their relationship with food and their body through sustainable nutrition practices.
(321) 475-6080 View (321) 475-6080
Photo of Demi Evrigenis, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Demi Evrigenis
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60620
Specialities include: Type 1 Diabetes, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
Demi is a registered dietitian who is dedicated to enhancing overall health and wellness. Specializing in aiding those with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, as well as renal and thyroid issues using a holistic approach. Beyond evaluating dietary practices, Demi considers lifestyle elements such as sleep, stress, and attitudes towards food. Combining nutritional expertise with empathy, she guides individuals towards improved health journeys. Recognizing the uniqueness of each path, Demi tailors personalized nutrition plans, targeting underlying health issues.
Specialities include: Type 1 Diabetes, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
Demi is a registered dietitian who is dedicated to enhancing overall health and wellness. Specializing in aiding those with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, as well as renal and thyroid issues using a holistic approach. Beyond evaluating dietary practices, Demi considers lifestyle elements such as sleep, stress, and attitudes towards food. Combining nutritional expertise with empathy, she guides individuals towards improved health journeys. Recognizing the uniqueness of each path, Demi tailors personalized nutrition plans, targeting underlying health issues.
(502) 218-4378 View (502) 218-4378
Photo of Cindy Wu, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Cindy Wu
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60620
Cindy is a Registered Dietitian with a background in individualized client care and 1:1 nutrition counseling. Cindy has developed rapport with clients from a variety of diagnoses, with a specialization in eating disorders. Cindy's primary goal is to help clients foster a strong and sustainable relationship with food that ultimately meets long-term goals. Cindy is a Registered Dietitian who provides an empathetic, trauma-informed, Health-At-Every-Size-informed, and weight-inclusive approach to care. Ensuring that clients feel supported and ready to make changes towards their nutritional goals is her main priority.
Cindy is a Registered Dietitian with a background in individualized client care and 1:1 nutrition counseling. Cindy has developed rapport with clients from a variety of diagnoses, with a specialization in eating disorders. Cindy's primary goal is to help clients foster a strong and sustainable relationship with food that ultimately meets long-term goals. Cindy is a Registered Dietitian who provides an empathetic, trauma-informed, Health-At-Every-Size-informed, and weight-inclusive approach to care. Ensuring that clients feel supported and ready to make changes towards their nutritional goals is her main priority.
(612) 324-6528 View (612) 324-6528
Photo of Stephanie Fiorentino, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Stephanie Fiorentino
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Stephanie! I’m a Health at Every Size aligned dietitian specializing in eating disorder recovery, intuitive eating, and weight neutral medical nutrition therapy. I work with clients to develop an individualized nourishment plan based on their hunger, fullness, and satisfaction cues – without relying on external factors like calorie counting or food restriction to guide eating. I believe that food should be satisfying, fun, and easy. I believe that wellness should be accessible to everyone. And I believe that people in all bodies deserve respectful, compassionate care.
Hi, I'm Stephanie! I’m a Health at Every Size aligned dietitian specializing in eating disorder recovery, intuitive eating, and weight neutral medical nutrition therapy. I work with clients to develop an individualized nourishment plan based on their hunger, fullness, and satisfaction cues – without relying on external factors like calorie counting or food restriction to guide eating. I believe that food should be satisfying, fun, and easy. I believe that wellness should be accessible to everyone. And I believe that people in all bodies deserve respectful, compassionate care.
(773) 207-3268 View (773) 207-3268
Photo of Sofia Mendes, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Sofia Mendes
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I am a registered dietitian who is passionate about guiding others toward a healthier, more positive relationship with food and their bodies. I understand that nutrition is not a one-size-fits-all journey, which is why I prioritize a client-centered approach and tailor my care to each individual. In a world overwhelmed by nutrition myths and misinformation, I strive to cut through the noise and make healthy living approachable and clear. I recognize that every person has unique nutritional needs, so I ensure that my guidance reflects that.
I am a registered dietitian who is passionate about guiding others toward a healthier, more positive relationship with food and their bodies. I understand that nutrition is not a one-size-fits-all journey, which is why I prioritize a client-centered approach and tailor my care to each individual. In a world overwhelmed by nutrition myths and misinformation, I strive to cut through the noise and make healthy living approachable and clear. I recognize that every person has unique nutritional needs, so I ensure that my guidance reflects that.
(630) 496-4611 View (630) 496-4611
Photo of Julie Moreschi, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Julie Moreschi
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Chicago, IL 60632
She also supports clients with medical nutrition therapy for diabetes, heart health, digestive concerns, and preventive wellness.
Julie’s ideal clients are individuals seeking personalized support for weight management, chronic disease prevention, digestive health, and overall wellness. Many come to her wanting practical guidance that fits their lifestyle and health goals. As a client-centered Registered Dietitian, Julie provides evidence-based nutrition care, individualized meal planning, and ongoing support to help clients build healthier habits and achieve lasting results.
She also supports clients with medical nutrition therapy for diabetes, heart health, digestive concerns, and preventive wellness.
Julie’s ideal clients are individuals seeking personalized support for weight management, chronic disease prevention, digestive health, and overall wellness. Many come to her wanting practical guidance that fits their lifestyle and health goals. As a client-centered Registered Dietitian, Julie provides evidence-based nutrition care, individualized meal planning, and ongoing support to help clients build healthier habits and achieve lasting results.
(773) 786-9787 View (773) 786-9787
Photo of Elise Vega, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PSM, RDN, LDN
Elise Vega
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PSM, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialities include: Weight Management, Sports Nutrition, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, Intuitive Eating, High Cholesterol, Heart Health, High Blood Pressure, Weight Gain, Anti-Inflammatory, Pre-Diabetes, and Type 2 Diabetes.
Elise is a dietitian who focuses on using realistic approaches to help you improve your health through nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle practices. Her approach to nutrition is holistic and client centered. She takes the time to fully understand your unique lifestyle, preferences, and challenges to create a realistic nutrition plan together as a team. Elise believes in the power of using high quality nutrient dense foods to support all aspects of your health and wellbeing.
Specialities include: Weight Management, Sports Nutrition, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, Intuitive Eating, High Cholesterol, Heart Health, High Blood Pressure, Weight Gain, Anti-Inflammatory, Pre-Diabetes, and Type 2 Diabetes.
Elise is a dietitian who focuses on using realistic approaches to help you improve your health through nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle practices. Her approach to nutrition is holistic and client centered. She takes the time to fully understand your unique lifestyle, preferences, and challenges to create a realistic nutrition plan together as a team. Elise believes in the power of using high quality nutrient dense foods to support all aspects of your health and wellbeing.
(321) 468-9298 View (321) 468-9298
Photo of Jenna Brown, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD
Jenna Brown
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Jenna is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Specialist in Sport Dietetics. She focuses on fueling for exercise/athletic performance, health, and weight management. She utilizes a food first approach and recommends supplements as needed to fill in micronutrient gaps. She builds individualized nutrition plans for weight management, and body composition changes. She provides a judgement free zone where you can feel comfortable to share your goals, current dietary practices, and exercise regimen. Jenna believes there are no healthy and unhealthy, good or bad foods, rather every day foods and every now and then foods.
Jenna is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Specialist in Sport Dietetics. She focuses on fueling for exercise/athletic performance, health, and weight management. She utilizes a food first approach and recommends supplements as needed to fill in micronutrient gaps. She builds individualized nutrition plans for weight management, and body composition changes. She provides a judgement free zone where you can feel comfortable to share your goals, current dietary practices, and exercise regimen. Jenna believes there are no healthy and unhealthy, good or bad foods, rather every day foods and every now and then foods.
(351) 208-1409 View (351) 208-1409
Photo of Amanda Wagner, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MEd, RDN, LDN
Amanda Wagner
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MEd, RDN, LDN
Serves Area
Amanda is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) that specializes in sports nutrition, plant-based eating, and the intersection of the two. She is an avid runner and former division 1 cross country/ track athlete. She is also a former high school science teacher with a M.Ed in science education who changed careers to become a RDN. Amanda also works as Certified Running Coach.
Amanda is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) that specializes in sports nutrition, plant-based eating, and the intersection of the two. She is an avid runner and former division 1 cross country/ track athlete. She is also a former high school science teacher with a M.Ed in science education who changed careers to become a RDN. Amanda also works as Certified Running Coach.
(872) 253-8493 View (872) 253-8493
Photo of Brianne Herber, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Brianne Herber
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60638
Brianne is a Registered Dietitian at Health Loft who is passionate about providing personalized support to help clients reach their health goals and create sustainable lifestyle changes. She takes a compassionate, non-judgmental approach, meeting each person where they are in their journey. Brianne believes nutrition and health are not one-size-fits-all and is committed to walking alongside her clients, offering guidance tailored to their unique needs—one step at a time.
Brianne is a Registered Dietitian at Health Loft who is passionate about providing personalized support to help clients reach their health goals and create sustainable lifestyle changes. She takes a compassionate, non-judgmental approach, meeting each person where they are in their journey. Brianne believes nutrition and health are not one-size-fits-all and is committed to walking alongside her clients, offering guidance tailored to their unique needs—one step at a time.
(341) 209-5964 View (341) 209-5964
Photo of Ellen Handlan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Ellen Handlan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a practicing Registered Dietitian and Certified Nutrition Coach, I am focused on helping clients discover joy and inspiration while living a healthy lifestyle. My approach is highly personalized and emphasizes balance and moderation, as opposed to restriction and elimination. Together, we'll explore your lifestyle and habits, building a fully customized plan you feel confident succeeding with. I'll be there for you every step of the way, offering warm and enthusiastic support in a judgment-free and secure space.
As a practicing Registered Dietitian and Certified Nutrition Coach, I am focused on helping clients discover joy and inspiration while living a healthy lifestyle. My approach is highly personalized and emphasizes balance and moderation, as opposed to restriction and elimination. Together, we'll explore your lifestyle and habits, building a fully customized plan you feel confident succeeding with. I'll be there for you every step of the way, offering warm and enthusiastic support in a judgment-free and secure space.
(877) 379-5460 View (877) 379-5460
Photo of Mia Greco - Olive Branch Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, MPH, RD, LDN
Olive Branch Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, MPH, RD, LDN
Serves Area
Our mission is to provide weight inclusive medical nutrition therapy, using the principles of Intuitive Eating in a HAES aligned practice. The intent of our counseling is to help people find peace with food freedom, develop a healthy relationship with food and their bodies, and focus on gentle nutrition to manage and prevent chronic disease states.
Our mission is to provide weight inclusive medical nutrition therapy, using the principles of Intuitive Eating in a HAES aligned practice. The intent of our counseling is to help people find peace with food freedom, develop a healthy relationship with food and their bodies, and focus on gentle nutrition to manage and prevent chronic disease states.
(224) 218-5362 View (224) 218-5362
Photo of Deepa Deshmukh, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, BC-ADM, CDE, LDN
Deepa Deshmukh
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, BC-ADM, CDE, LDN
Lisle, IL 60532
Whether or not you want to improve your run time, or improve your glucose control, the evidence is clear that working with a Registered Dietitian can help you do that! Our goal at DuPage Dietitians is to assist each client in learning how they to move toward a lifetime of health. We do that by closing the knowledge gap, writing sound nutrition prescriptions based on solid evidence and by coaching our clients toward lasting changes.
Whether or not you want to improve your run time, or improve your glucose control, the evidence is clear that working with a Registered Dietitian can help you do that! Our goal at DuPage Dietitians is to assist each client in learning how they to move toward a lifetime of health. We do that by closing the knowledge gap, writing sound nutrition prescriptions based on solid evidence and by coaching our clients toward lasting changes.
(630) 387-9967 View (630) 387-9967
Photo of Lou Ann Chvatal, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, cpt
Lou Ann Chvatal
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, cpt
Lisle, IL 60532
I'm inviting all individuals who need a fresh start to their recovery. A fresh start looks like: needing to work through challenges that still remain from previous eating disorder treatments; an introduction to that body of yours who has been waiting to be "friended" by you; wanting to know how very different a nourished brain behaves and finally- meeting a hybrid dietitian who safely, wisely helps you eat, move and live in a body that's hungry for change.
I'm inviting all individuals who need a fresh start to their recovery. A fresh start looks like: needing to work through challenges that still remain from previous eating disorder treatments; an introduction to that body of yours who has been waiting to be "friended" by you; wanting to know how very different a nourished brain behaves and finally- meeting a hybrid dietitian who safely, wisely helps you eat, move and live in a body that's hungry for change.
(630) 338-0778 View (630) 338-0778
Photo of Danielle Hendrix, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CEDS
Danielle Hendrix
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CEDS
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60620
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Emotional Wellbeing, Wellness Counseling, Heart Healthy Nutrition, General Nutrition, IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Vegan, Vegetarian diets.
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Emotional Wellbeing, Wellness Counseling, Heart Healthy Nutrition, General Nutrition, IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Vegan, Vegetarian diets.
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
(346) 666-7394 View (346) 666-7394
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.