Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians in 97219

Photo of Kaitlin Mueller - Wholesome Health, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CD, CDCES
Wholesome Health
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CD, CDCES
Portland, OR 97219
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
Photo of Kristina McCarthy, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MCN, RD, LD
Kristina McCarthy
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MCN, RD, LD
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
Krissy helps clients take the stress out of eating and find confidence and joy in nourishing themselves. She was inspired to become a Registered Dietitian after navigating her own health challenges involving food, and she brings an empathetic lens to supporting clients on their own health journeys. Krissy works with clients to explore and improve their relationship with food through an “all foods fit” approach, often incorporating intuitive and mindful eating practices.
Krissy helps clients take the stress out of eating and find confidence and joy in nourishing themselves. She was inspired to become a Registered Dietitian after navigating her own health challenges involving food, and she brings an empathetic lens to supporting clients on their own health journeys. Krissy works with clients to explore and improve their relationship with food through an “all foods fit” approach, often incorporating intuitive and mindful eating practices.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of Mia O'Brien-Combs, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Mia O'Brien-Combs
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi! I'm Mia (she/her). I’m a Registered Dietitian dedicated to providing culturally centered, accessible, and compassionate nutrition care. I am committed to providing HAES-aligned evidence based care that also honors and celebrates your lived experience. I utilize intuitive eating principles and motivational interviewing with an “all foods fit” and gentle nutrition approach.I will work with you from a place of curiosity and together we will develop tools, skills, and knowledge to better understand and nourish your body while working towards your health goals.
Hi! I'm Mia (she/her). I’m a Registered Dietitian dedicated to providing culturally centered, accessible, and compassionate nutrition care. I am committed to providing HAES-aligned evidence based care that also honors and celebrates your lived experience. I utilize intuitive eating principles and motivational interviewing with an “all foods fit” and gentle nutrition approach.I will work with you from a place of curiosity and together we will develop tools, skills, and knowledge to better understand and nourish your body while working towards your health goals.
(904) 601-1243 View (904) 601-1243
Photo of Angela Hermes, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CLT
Angela Hermes
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CLT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you suffer from an incurable chronic illness? Have you tried multiple treatment options with limited success? Are you tired of feeling sick and tired? If so, please consider adding me to your team! Some of the conditions I typically treat are: Chronic migraine and other headaches, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Lupus, Fibromyalgia, Arthritis, Joint/Muscle Pain, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, ADD/ADHD, Austism/ASD, Epilepsy, Narcolepsy, Cancer and Cyclic Vomiting syndrome. If you have not found success with treating these or other chronic illnesses then I would love to work with you!
Do you suffer from an incurable chronic illness? Have you tried multiple treatment options with limited success? Are you tired of feeling sick and tired? If so, please consider adding me to your team! Some of the conditions I typically treat are: Chronic migraine and other headaches, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Lupus, Fibromyalgia, Arthritis, Joint/Muscle Pain, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, ADD/ADHD, Austism/ASD, Epilepsy, Narcolepsy, Cancer and Cyclic Vomiting syndrome. If you have not found success with treating these or other chronic illnesses then I would love to work with you!
(971) 251-4656 View (971) 251-4656
Photo of Kerri Holmquist, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
Kerri Holmquist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Other areas of practice/interest include Cardiac/ Heart Health, Renal Disease, and intuitive eating.
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition. She believes that the beauty of her profession is supporting clients to become empowered and confident as they explore what works for them. Kerri takes a lifelong and “food is fun” approach to her sessions, and understands that what may work in one season of life, may not work in the next. Kerri also believes in an all inclusive approach with foods and body types, providing an environment rich in opportunity to build trust and learning for both client and provider.
Other areas of practice/interest include Cardiac/ Heart Health, Renal Disease, and intuitive eating.
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition. She believes that the beauty of her profession is supporting clients to become empowered and confident as they explore what works for them. Kerri takes a lifelong and “food is fun” approach to her sessions, and understands that what may work in one season of life, may not work in the next. Kerri also believes in an all inclusive approach with foods and body types, providing an environment rich in opportunity to build trust and learning for both client and provider.
(704) 859-2677 View (704) 859-2677

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 Allison Hoybach, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Allison Hoybach
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Her primary focus has been bariatric support, diabetes, IBS, and plant based nutrition, but her background also includes kidney disease, heart health, gut issues and malnutrition.
Specialities include: Bariatric Support, Weight Management and Weight Loss Medications, Diabetes, Kidney Disease, Plant-Based Eating, Heart Health and Mindful Eating.
Her primary focus has been bariatric support, diabetes, IBS, and plant based nutrition, but her background also includes kidney disease, heart health, gut issues and malnutrition.
Specialities include: Bariatric Support, Weight Management and Weight Loss Medications, Diabetes, Kidney Disease, Plant-Based Eating, Heart Health and Mindful Eating.
(352) 309-0794 View (352) 309-0794
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 Leo Fischer - Nutrition In The Right Place, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MscN, CN
Nutrition In The Right Place
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MscN, CN
Portland, OR 97202
I work with a lot of clients that have weight loss goals and to prevent, reverse or manage chronic disease including heart disease and diabetes.
Complete list on my website NutritionInTheRightPlace.com. I only use evidence based and well researched recommendations in my nutrition practice. My specialties include type 2 diabetes, cholesterol, high blood pressure, weight loss, heart disease, Keto, Vegetarian/Vegan, medical nutrition therapy, SIBO, Sports Nutrition, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and more!
I work with a lot of clients that have weight loss goals and to prevent, reverse or manage chronic disease including heart disease and diabetes.
Complete list on my website NutritionInTheRightPlace.com. I only use evidence based and well researched recommendations in my nutrition practice. My specialties include type 2 diabetes, cholesterol, high blood pressure, weight loss, heart disease, Keto, Vegetarian/Vegan, medical nutrition therapy, SIBO, Sports Nutrition, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and more!
(508) 544-0663 View (508) 544-0663
Photo of Hannah Saffold, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Hannah Saffold
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you ready for to change your relationship with food and your body but unsure where to start? Are you confused about what to eat? Do you tend to talk yourself out of change, feel overwhelmed, or self-sabotage? Hi, I'm Hannah and with me, you can expect a warm and process-oriented nutrition therapy style that addresses your goals, as well as support in working through roadblocks that have kept you stuck in the past. Together, I support you in finding more balance and ease with your eating by developing more trust and confidence in yourself and your body.
Are you ready for to change your relationship with food and your body but unsure where to start? Are you confused about what to eat? Do you tend to talk yourself out of change, feel overwhelmed, or self-sabotage? Hi, I'm Hannah and with me, you can expect a warm and process-oriented nutrition therapy style that addresses your goals, as well as support in working through roadblocks that have kept you stuck in the past. Together, I support you in finding more balance and ease with your eating by developing more trust and confidence in yourself and your body.
(458) 243-4763 View (458) 243-4763
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 Brianne Herber, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Brianne Herber
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
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
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.