Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians in 97201

Photo of Lindsay L Henley - Lindsay Henley LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Lindsay Henley LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Serves Area
I am passionate about gut health (IBS/SIBO specifically), yoga, and coaching people who are suffering from abdominal pain, bloating, altered bowel habits, and chronic stress to help implement practical solutions to their health problems, so they can make confident food choices, experience increased energy levels, and reduce IBS-related symptoms. Living a life free of IBS is truly life changing. I know, because I have experienced it first hand. Contact me to see if working together could benefit you.
I am passionate about gut health (IBS/SIBO specifically), yoga, and coaching people who are suffering from abdominal pain, bloating, altered bowel habits, and chronic stress to help implement practical solutions to their health problems, so they can make confident food choices, experience increased energy levels, and reduce IBS-related symptoms. Living a life free of IBS is truly life changing. I know, because I have experienced it first hand. Contact me to see if working together could benefit you.
(509) 390-2282 View (509) 390-2282
Photo of Kaitlin Mueller - Wholesome Health, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CD, CDCES
Wholesome Health
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CD, CDCES
Serves Area
I love helping my clients achieve their ideal weight and manage any chronic health conditions. Nutrition is not one-size-fits-all, so I really spend the time getting to know my clients and offer a personalized plan that will work for you. If going in one direction doesn't work for you, we will regroup and try something else until we find a way to help you live your best possible life while still enjoying what you eat. I also offer meal planning services, complete with grocery lists and recipes!
I love helping my clients achieve their ideal weight and manage any chronic health conditions. Nutrition is not one-size-fits-all, so I really spend the time getting to know my clients and offer a personalized plan that will work for you. If going in one direction doesn't work for you, we will regroup and try something else until we find a way to help you live your best possible life while still enjoying what you eat. I also offer meal planning services, complete with grocery lists and recipes!
(971) 260-4461 View (971) 260-4461

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Maria Seitz, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Maria Seitz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties include: Sports Nutrition, Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Intuitive and Mindful Eating, Pre/Postnatal Nutrition, Plant Based Diets, Heart Health, Kidney Health, and General Lifestyle and Nutrition.
Maria is a Registered Dietitian who strongly believes in improving physical, mental, and emotional health through nutrition. Maria enjoys using her clinical background to help others navigate their unique nutritional needs by providing individualized interventions. Maria believes in a patient-centered, evidenced-based approach to nutrition care. She will help you achieve your nutrition goals through education, counseling, and therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure response prevention therapy, and medical nutrition therapy.
Specialties include: Sports Nutrition, Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Intuitive and Mindful Eating, Pre/Postnatal Nutrition, Plant Based Diets, Heart Health, Kidney Health, and General Lifestyle and Nutrition.
Maria is a Registered Dietitian who strongly believes in improving physical, mental, and emotional health through nutrition. Maria enjoys using her clinical background to help others navigate their unique nutritional needs by providing individualized interventions. Maria believes in a patient-centered, evidenced-based approach to nutrition care. She will help you achieve your nutrition goals through education, counseling, and therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure response prevention therapy, and medical nutrition therapy.
(872) 259-9747 View (872) 259-9747
Photo of Jody Halouska, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
Jody Halouska
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
Portland, OR 97215
Specialties include Diabetes and Pre-diabetes, Bariatrics (pre and post operation), Weight management, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Heart Conditions, Underweight Nutrition, Intuitive Eating, PCOS, Prenatal/Post Natal Nutrition, Gastrointestinal, GERD, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Kidney disease, liver disease, and Sports Nutrition.
Jody is a passionate advocate for health, wellness, and feeling your best. Jody is committed to empowering individuals to make positive and sustainable lifestyle changes. Jody strives to provide personalized guidance to help clients achieve their health goals and create a harmonious relationship with food. Recognizing that each individual's relationship with food is unique, Jody works to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel empowered to explore their dietary preferences, navigate challenges and cultivate sustainable habits that align with their goals and values.
Specialties include Diabetes and Pre-diabetes, Bariatrics (pre and post operation), Weight management, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Heart Conditions, Underweight Nutrition, Intuitive Eating, PCOS, Prenatal/Post Natal Nutrition, Gastrointestinal, GERD, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Kidney disease, liver disease, and Sports Nutrition.
Jody is a passionate advocate for health, wellness, and feeling your best. Jody is committed to empowering individuals to make positive and sustainable lifestyle changes. Jody strives to provide personalized guidance to help clients achieve their health goals and create a harmonious relationship with food. Recognizing that each individual's relationship with food is unique, Jody works to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel empowered to explore their dietary preferences, navigate challenges and cultivate sustainable habits that align with their goals and values.
(872) 259-7074 View (872) 259-7074
Photo of Brittany Norem, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Brittany Norem
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97224
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 Delaney Rose Sump, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CPT
Delaney Rose Sump
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CPT
Portland, OR 97214
I love in working with people who want a more grounded, sustainable approach to health. Clients often come to me feeling burned out by dieting, confused by conflicting advice, or frustrated by the burden of managing chronic conditions or navigating the overwhelm of everyday nutrition and family food systems. I provide evidence-based, weight-inclusive care that helps clients simplify nutrition, improve health outcomes, build sustainable habits, and reconnect with their bodies in a more supportive, realistic way.
I love in working with people who want a more grounded, sustainable approach to health. Clients often come to me feeling burned out by dieting, confused by conflicting advice, or frustrated by the burden of managing chronic conditions or navigating the overwhelm of everyday nutrition and family food systems. I provide evidence-based, weight-inclusive care that helps clients simplify nutrition, improve health outcomes, build sustainable habits, and reconnect with their bodies in a more supportive, realistic way.
(971) 290-2585 View (971) 290-2585
Photo of Carra Joseph, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LRD, LD
Carra Joseph
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LRD, LD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Carra is a Registered Dietitian (RD) who recognizes that nutrition is both universal and deeply personal. Nutrition isn’t just about eating—culture, goals, preferences, and habits all shape how we fuel ourselves. Carra provides a nonjudgmental space where individuals can connect nutrition and wellness and feel empowered to make sustainable changes.
Carra is a Registered Dietitian (RD) who recognizes that nutrition is both universal and deeply personal. Nutrition isn’t just about eating—culture, goals, preferences, and habits all shape how we fuel ourselves. Carra provides a nonjudgmental space where individuals can connect nutrition and wellness and feel empowered to make sustainable changes.
(980) 575-0909 View (980) 575-0909
Photo of Brittany Payton, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Brittany Payton
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Brittany Payton, RD, LD, is a licensed dietitian with over 19 years of experience helping clients heal chronic conditions using food as medicine. After facing her own health challenges, she adopted a root-cause, whole-body approach. Brittany blends functional nutrition, clinical insight, and compassion to create personalized, practical plans. She truly listens to each client, empowering them to make lasting change—no quick fixes or restrictive diets here.
Brittany Payton, RD, LD, is a licensed dietitian with over 19 years of experience helping clients heal chronic conditions using food as medicine. After facing her own health challenges, she adopted a root-cause, whole-body approach. Brittany blends functional nutrition, clinical insight, and compassion to create personalized, practical plans. She truly listens to each client, empowering them to make lasting change—no quick fixes or restrictive diets here.
(615) 909-4087 View (615) 909-4087
Photo of Chloe Whaley - Nutrition Made Simple, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Nutrition Made Simple
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Beaverton, OR 97005
My ideal client feels overwhelmed by the constant noise of viral wellness trends and "quick-fix" advice that often leaves them feeling more confused than when they started. They aren't looking for a generic PDF; they need a personalized approach with realistic goals that honor their culture, busy schedule, and unique food preferences. Whether you are managing a chronic illness, transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle, or learning to trust your body through intuitive eating, I provide the evidence-based clarity you need to trade "misinformation fatigue" for a sustainable, empowered path forward.
My ideal client feels overwhelmed by the constant noise of viral wellness trends and "quick-fix" advice that often leaves them feeling more confused than when they started. They aren't looking for a generic PDF; they need a personalized approach with realistic goals that honor their culture, busy schedule, and unique food preferences. Whether you are managing a chronic illness, transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle, or learning to trust your body through intuitive eating, I provide the evidence-based clarity you need to trade "misinformation fatigue" for a sustainable, empowered path forward.
(971) 309-8971 View (971) 309-8971
Photo of Madeline Kuras, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Madeline Kuras
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Madeline is a registered dietitian who is passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their personal goals and feel in control of their own nutrition journey. She has experience in all levels of eating disorder treatment across all age groups. Madeline has a background in athletics and utilizes this to foster resilience and strength in her clients. She approaches each session with curiosity and drive to understand her clients struggles. She provides a safe space for all individuals to create and define their own definition of health and sustainable change.
Madeline is a registered dietitian who is passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their personal goals and feel in control of their own nutrition journey. She has experience in all levels of eating disorder treatment across all age groups. Madeline has a background in athletics and utilizes this to foster resilience and strength in her clients. She approaches each session with curiosity and drive to understand her clients struggles. She provides a safe space for all individuals to create and define their own definition of health and sustainable change.
(651) 412-7437 View (651) 412-7437
Photo of Kelly Bay, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CNS, DC
Kelly Bay
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CNS, DC
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals experiencing complex, chronic health concerns such as gut issues, hormone imbalance, autoimmune conditions, thyroid dysfunction, food sensitivities, and low energy or poor sleep. They often feel frustrated by vague symptoms or inconclusive conventional testing and want deeper answers. I use a functional, whole-body approach with in-depth assessment and diagnostic testing to identify root causes. Together, we use personalized nutrition, lifestyle strategies, and education to improve symptoms and restore confidence in their health.
My ideal clients are individuals experiencing complex, chronic health concerns such as gut issues, hormone imbalance, autoimmune conditions, thyroid dysfunction, food sensitivities, and low energy or poor sleep. They often feel frustrated by vague symptoms or inconclusive conventional testing and want deeper answers. I use a functional, whole-body approach with in-depth assessment and diagnostic testing to identify root causes. Together, we use personalized nutrition, lifestyle strategies, and education to improve symptoms and restore confidence in their health.
(708) 938-3273 View (708) 938-3273
Photo of Sarah White, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Sarah White
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for heart disease, diabetes, and overall wellness.
I specialize in heart health, diabetes management, and overall wellness. I provide evidence-based nutrition counseling to help clients understand their health conditions, build sustainable habits, and make realistic lifestyle changes that support long-term health outcomes.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for heart disease, diabetes, and overall wellness.
I specialize in heart health, diabetes management, and overall wellness. I provide evidence-based nutrition counseling to help clients understand their health conditions, build sustainable habits, and make realistic lifestyle changes that support long-term health outcomes.
(980) 704-0297 View (980) 704-0297
Photo of Liat Nadler, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MScN, CN, CNS, LD, LPF
Liat Nadler
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MScN, CN, CNS, LD, LPF
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
My ideal client is a woman 35+ dealing with perimenopause or menopause. She’s frustrated by stubborn belly fat, low energy, poor sleep, mood swings, bloating, thinning hair, and skin issues (despite doing “everything right"). She wants real, long-term solutions. Her goal is to feel like herself again (or a better version of herself): leaner, energized, clear-headed, with clearer skin and fuller hair. She’s seeking expert guidance to optimize her metabolism, balance hormones, improve gut health, and get lasting results.
My ideal client is a woman 35+ dealing with perimenopause or menopause. She’s frustrated by stubborn belly fat, low energy, poor sleep, mood swings, bloating, thinning hair, and skin issues (despite doing “everything right"). She wants real, long-term solutions. Her goal is to feel like herself again (or a better version of herself): leaner, energized, clear-headed, with clearer skin and fuller hair. She’s seeking expert guidance to optimize her metabolism, balance hormones, improve gut health, and get lasting results.
(971) 407-4142 View (971) 407-4142
Photo of Marissa Weissbuch, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Marissa Weissbuch
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Marissa, a dedicated Registered Dietitian, is passionate about helping others heal their relationship with food. Inspired by her own health journey, she brings empathy, understanding, and practical tools to guide clients in quieting “food noise” and finding sustainable balance. With a whole-person, individualized approach, she simplifies nutrition, making structure and routine attainable. Rejecting diet culture, she empowers clients to nourish their bodies, supporting digestion, metabolism, mental health, skin, and hormones.
Marissa, a dedicated Registered Dietitian, is passionate about helping others heal their relationship with food. Inspired by her own health journey, she brings empathy, understanding, and practical tools to guide clients in quieting “food noise” and finding sustainable balance. With a whole-person, individualized approach, she simplifies nutrition, making structure and routine attainable. Rejecting diet culture, she empowers clients to nourish their bodies, supporting digestion, metabolism, mental health, skin, and hormones.
(213) 263-4843 View (213) 263-4843
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 Barbara Heerkens, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LD
Barbara Heerkens
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LD
5 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Ideal clients are individuals who spend a significant amount of time worrying about their body, weight, and food choices, often feeling trapped in a cycle of restriction, guilt, and frustration. They may believe they'll never achieve their health goals. These clients are ready to explore the diet cycle, challenge misinformation, and develop mindfulness around their thoughts on food, weight, and health. This process helps quiet the constant “food noise” in their minds and fosters greater self-compassion, freedom, and peace with food.
Ideal clients are individuals who spend a significant amount of time worrying about their body, weight, and food choices, often feeling trapped in a cycle of restriction, guilt, and frustration. They may believe they'll never achieve their health goals. These clients are ready to explore the diet cycle, challenge misinformation, and develop mindfulness around their thoughts on food, weight, and health. This process helps quiet the constant “food noise” in their minds and fosters greater self-compassion, freedom, and peace with food.
(785) 377-5964 View (785) 377-5964
Photo of Brayden Goldblatt, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Brayden Goldblatt
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Brayden’s specialties include weight management, weight loss/gain, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, heart-healthy nutrition therapy, oncology, enteral nutrition, as well as intuitive eating, disordered eating, Health at Every Size (HAES), mindful eating, and general wellness.
Brayden is a registered dietitian with a passion for health and wellness. She supports clients through realistic, sustainable lifestyle changes using a compassionate, inclusive, and client-centered approach. Brayden blends evidence-based nutrition with practical habits to help clients feel their best in the long term. She creates a safe, non-judgmental space for exploring goals and challenges, offering personalized counseling and education to build lasting, meaningful change.
Brayden’s specialties include weight management, weight loss/gain, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, heart-healthy nutrition therapy, oncology, enteral nutrition, as well as intuitive eating, disordered eating, Health at Every Size (HAES), mindful eating, and general wellness.
Brayden is a registered dietitian with a passion for health and wellness. She supports clients through realistic, sustainable lifestyle changes using a compassionate, inclusive, and client-centered approach. Brayden blends evidence-based nutrition with practical habits to help clients feel their best in the long term. She creates a safe, non-judgmental space for exploring goals and challenges, offering personalized counseling and education to build lasting, meaningful change.
(971) 365-3205 View (971) 365-3205
Photo of Katie Whitson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Katie Whitson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Katie Whitson is a dedicated HAEs-aligned Registered Dietitian with a deep passion for fostering healthy, sustainable relationships with food and movement. She embraces a non-diet approach, focusing on the connection between nutrition and mental health. Katie employs evidence-based strategies to meet patients where they are in their care, empowering them through active involvement and personalized support. Her mission is to inspire lifelong, transformative changes by blending consistency, structure and creativity in every aspect of her practice.
Katie Whitson is a dedicated HAEs-aligned Registered Dietitian with a deep passion for fostering healthy, sustainable relationships with food and movement. She embraces a non-diet approach, focusing on the connection between nutrition and mental health. Katie employs evidence-based strategies to meet patients where they are in their care, empowering them through active involvement and personalized support. Her mission is to inspire lifelong, transformative changes by blending consistency, structure and creativity in every aspect of her practice.
(551) 288-6517 View (551) 288-6517
Photo of Melissa Horstman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Melissa Horstman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties include Type 1&2 Diabetes, weight management, high blood pressure and heart health, PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), GI disorders, and overall health and wellness
Melissa is a dedicated Registered Dietitian who strives to build rapport with her clients and fully understand their nutritional challenges and needs while fostering a positive relationship with food and self-kindness. She enjoys helping others achieve positive changes in their mental and physical health through nutrition counseling and education. Melissa is particularly passionate about working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and the connection between nutrition and mental health.
Specialties include Type 1&2 Diabetes, weight management, high blood pressure and heart health, PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), GI disorders, and overall health and wellness
Melissa is a dedicated Registered Dietitian who strives to build rapport with her clients and fully understand their nutritional challenges and needs while fostering a positive relationship with food and self-kindness. She enjoys helping others achieve positive changes in their mental and physical health through nutrition counseling and education. Melissa is particularly passionate about working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and the connection between nutrition and mental health.
(469) 436-4959 View (469) 436-4959
Photo of Demi Evrigenis, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Demi Evrigenis
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97230
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.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
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.