Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians in Catonsville, MD

Photo of Andria McCormack, Nutritionist/Dietitian, LDN, RDN
Andria McCormack
Nutritionist/Dietitian, LDN, RDN
Online Only
My mission is to simplify nutrition and empower clients with practical tools they can use long term. In client meetings I offer a personalized and supportive approach that makes healthy eating habits feel achievable, satisfying, and tailored to YOUR lifestyle.
My mission is to simplify nutrition and empower clients with practical tools they can use long term. In client meetings I offer a personalized and supportive approach that makes healthy eating habits feel achievable, satisfying, and tailored to YOUR lifestyle.
(443) 781-9032 View (443) 781-9032
Photo of Shannon Svikhart, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Shannon Svikhart
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Serves Area
My goal is to guide my clients through the nutrition changes needed for optimal health. We'll begin our work together with an initial assessment, approachable nutrition education, and goal setting. I will challenge you to set realistic goals and achievable milestones, supporting you every step of the way. My hope it that our sessions will be a warm and compassionate space for you to learn and grow.
My goal is to guide my clients through the nutrition changes needed for optimal health. We'll begin our work together with an initial assessment, approachable nutrition education, and goal setting. I will challenge you to set realistic goals and achievable milestones, supporting you every step of the way. My hope it that our sessions will be a warm and compassionate space for you to learn and grow.
(443) 785-7123 View (443) 785-7123
Photo of Jodi Serafin - Jodi Serafin of Chesapeake Nutrition Company, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CDCES
Jodi Serafin of Chesapeake Nutrition Company
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CDCES
Serves Area
If you are looking to partner with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for help with your diet or a particular health concern, we welcome you to Chesapeake Nutrition Company. During our sessions I will guide you through the nutrition changes that may be most beneficial and will challenge you to set realistic goals and achievable milestones. Working side by side, you are never alone when doing the work of defining, refining, and achieving better health.
If you are looking to partner with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for help with your diet or a particular health concern, we welcome you to Chesapeake Nutrition Company. During our sessions I will guide you through the nutrition changes that may be most beneficial and will challenge you to set realistic goals and achievable milestones. Working side by side, you are never alone when doing the work of defining, refining, and achieving better health.
(301) 250-1063 View (301) 250-1063

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Daphene Altema-Johnson - Health Wellness Pact, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, MBA, RDN, LD
Health Wellness Pact
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, MBA, RDN, LD
Columbia, MD 21044
Our goal at Health Wellness Pact LLC is to serve as your accountability partner. We’ll make a pact to help you achieve your nutrition and health goals - whatever they are. We know there’s no “one size fits all” in life. The ultimate goal of working together is progress, not perfection, and our interventions are rooted in scientific evidence.
Our goal at Health Wellness Pact LLC is to serve as your accountability partner. We’ll make a pact to help you achieve your nutrition and health goals - whatever they are. We know there’s no “one size fits all” in life. The ultimate goal of working together is progress, not perfection, and our interventions are rooted in scientific evidence.
(240) 774-1735 View (240) 774-1735
Photo of Caroline Tizard - Thrive Nutrition Counseling, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS RD, LDN, CSOWM
Thrive Nutrition Counseling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS RD, LDN, CSOWM
Baltimore, MD 21211
At Thrive Nutrition Counseling, we believe that true wellness begins with a great diet. You will work one-on-one with your Registered Dietitian to develop a personalized plan that fits your wellness goals. Thrive takes a holistic approach to nutrition that considers your unique dietary needs, habits, and preferences to develop a plan that works best for you!
At Thrive Nutrition Counseling, we believe that true wellness begins with a great diet. You will work one-on-one with your Registered Dietitian to develop a personalized plan that fits your wellness goals. Thrive takes a holistic approach to nutrition that considers your unique dietary needs, habits, and preferences to develop a plan that works best for you!
(443) 312-5320 View (443) 312-5320
Photo of Brittany Norem, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Brittany Norem
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 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 Morgan Schmitt, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Morgan Schmitt
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21212
Specialties include: Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
Morgan is a registered dietitian committed to improving overall health and well-being. She specializes in supporting individuals with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, and thyroid management. With a holistic approach, Morgan goes beyond assessing dietary habits to consider various lifestyle factors such as sleep patterns, stress levels, and one's relationship with food. Morgan combines her expertise in nutrition with a compassionate approach to guide individuals on their journey towards improved health and wellness. Morgan recognizes that everyone's health and wellness journey is unique.
Specialties include: Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
Morgan is a registered dietitian committed to improving overall health and well-being. She specializes in supporting individuals with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, and thyroid management. With a holistic approach, Morgan goes beyond assessing dietary habits to consider various lifestyle factors such as sleep patterns, stress levels, and one's relationship with food. Morgan combines her expertise in nutrition with a compassionate approach to guide individuals on their journey towards improved health and wellness. Morgan recognizes that everyone's health and wellness journey is unique.
(240) 237-9607 View (240) 237-9607
Photo of Sofia Mendes, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Sofia Mendes
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Ashley Fitzgerald, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN
Ashley Fitzgerald
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m a plant-based dietitian and nutritionist specializing in vegan and vegetarian diets. Having lived plant-based and gluten-free for over ten years, I understand both the benefits and the challenges of this lifestyle. Through personalized Zoom consultations, I provide support ranging from nutrition counseling to custom meal plans. My services cover weight management, balanced eating, meal prep strategies, and more specific areas such as sports nutrition, digestive health, pregnancy, and menopause. Every consultation is tailored to your goals, lifestyle, and needs so that you can save time and feel confident in your choices.
I’m a plant-based dietitian and nutritionist specializing in vegan and vegetarian diets. Having lived plant-based and gluten-free for over ten years, I understand both the benefits and the challenges of this lifestyle. Through personalized Zoom consultations, I provide support ranging from nutrition counseling to custom meal plans. My services cover weight management, balanced eating, meal prep strategies, and more specific areas such as sports nutrition, digestive health, pregnancy, and menopause. Every consultation is tailored to your goals, lifestyle, and needs so that you can save time and feel confident in your choices.
(832) 653-9698 View (832) 653-9698
Photo of Anne Suelzer, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Anne Suelzer
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties include Vegan/Vegetarian, Anti-inflammatory Nutrition, Heart Health, Hormonal Imbalances, GI Conditions (IBS and IBD), GERD (Acid Reflux), Diabetes, Crohn’s, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Kidney Disease, Weight Management, High Cholesterol, Ulcerative Colitis, Psychiatric Diagnosis, Hyper/Hypo-Thyroidism, Candida Overgrowth.
Anne is passionate about working collaboratively with clients to help them make healthy and sustainable diet changes that support their lifestyle and hormonal health. She understands food’s crucial role in balancing hormones and believes in the power of evidence-based research to guide her practice. Anne is particularly interested in the gut-brain connection and how it influences overall well-being. She emphasizes the importance of consuming whole foods that nourish the body and believes that access to nutritious food should be available to all.
Specialties include Vegan/Vegetarian, Anti-inflammatory Nutrition, Heart Health, Hormonal Imbalances, GI Conditions (IBS and IBD), GERD (Acid Reflux), Diabetes, Crohn’s, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Kidney Disease, Weight Management, High Cholesterol, Ulcerative Colitis, Psychiatric Diagnosis, Hyper/Hypo-Thyroidism, Candida Overgrowth.
Anne is passionate about working collaboratively with clients to help them make healthy and sustainable diet changes that support their lifestyle and hormonal health. She understands food’s crucial role in balancing hormones and believes in the power of evidence-based research to guide her practice. Anne is particularly interested in the gut-brain connection and how it influences overall well-being. She emphasizes the importance of consuming whole foods that nourish the body and believes that access to nutritious food should be available to all.
(332) 244-2046 View (332) 244-2046
Photo of Rebecca H Thomas - Food Freedom Nutrition Group, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Food Freedom Nutrition Group
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Are you struggle with yo-yo dieting and do not know how to eat for your health and pleasure? Does dieting and nutritional beliefs consume most of your thoughts and have become your identity? Let’s take back control! If you are ready to break up with destructive eating behaviors and find freedom from disordered eating, I am here to help. I specialize in Mindful eating, recovery from eating disorders( which include anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, orthorexia, ARFID and negative food associations).
Are you struggle with yo-yo dieting and do not know how to eat for your health and pleasure? Does dieting and nutritional beliefs consume most of your thoughts and have become your identity? Let’s take back control! If you are ready to break up with destructive eating behaviors and find freedom from disordered eating, I am here to help. I specialize in Mindful eating, recovery from eating disorders( which include anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, orthorexia, ARFID and negative food associations).
(443) 616-3329 View (443) 616-3329
Photo of Dr. Leandro Pucci, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, CNS, CKNS, LDN
Dr. Leandro Pucci
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, CNS, CKNS, LDN
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you want to improve your cardiometabolic health, manage weight, blood sugar, cholesterol, gut health, or inflammation? Struggling with mood issues? Using GLP-1 therapies (Ozempic, Mounjaro)? Are you experiencing hormone imbalances or performance issues? Curious about keto? I specialize in uncovering root causes and creating personalized, evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle plans. My approach uses Medical Nutrition Therapy to address your unique needs, not just symptoms. Let me help you achieve your health goals with a sustainable, personalized plan tailored to your concerns and health goals.
Do you want to improve your cardiometabolic health, manage weight, blood sugar, cholesterol, gut health, or inflammation? Struggling with mood issues? Using GLP-1 therapies (Ozempic, Mounjaro)? Are you experiencing hormone imbalances or performance issues? Curious about keto? I specialize in uncovering root causes and creating personalized, evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle plans. My approach uses Medical Nutrition Therapy to address your unique needs, not just symptoms. Let me help you achieve your health goals with a sustainable, personalized plan tailored to your concerns and health goals.
(323) 616-1605 View (323) 616-1605
Photo of Kaitlin Williams Eckstein, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LD
Kaitlin Williams Eckstein
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LD
6 Endorsed
Greenbelt, MD 20770
Planning meals for fertility, prenatal nutrition, women's health, hormones, diabetes, PCOS, kidney disease and heart health are my specialties.
You can often see me on cooking fun, healthy meals during live cooking demos on our facebook live, blogs, corporate events, support groups, cooking classes and local television. You can also see me in our Greenbelt, and Columbia offices. I can also provide telehealth appointments that are often covered by your health insurance plan.
Planning meals for fertility, prenatal nutrition, women's health, hormones, diabetes, PCOS, kidney disease and heart health are my specialties.
You can often see me on cooking fun, healthy meals during live cooking demos on our facebook live, blogs, corporate events, support groups, cooking classes and local television. You can also see me in our Greenbelt, and Columbia offices. I can also provide telehealth appointments that are often covered by your health insurance plan.
(301) 918-5654 View (301) 918-5654
Photo of Dr. Danielle Heard, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MS, CNS, LDN
Dr. Danielle Heard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MS, CNS, LDN
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Dr. Heard is a Licensed and Board Certified Doctor of Clinical & Functional Nutrition, and Certified Nutrition Specialist. She coaches women who want to improve their health and wellness. Dr. Heard has many years of experience working with people who have a wide range of health conditions. She primarily works with women ages 18+
Dr. Heard is a Licensed and Board Certified Doctor of Clinical & Functional Nutrition, and Certified Nutrition Specialist. She coaches women who want to improve their health and wellness. Dr. Heard has many years of experience working with people who have a wide range of health conditions. She primarily works with women ages 18+
(240) 235-6868 View (240) 235-6868
Photo of Emily Fultz, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Emily Fultz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Ellicott City, MD 21043
My passion is to help you get nutritionally fit. Whether you are an athlete looking to enhance your performance or simply an individual looking for the motivation to get your health back – I am here to help you achieve your goals. Nutrition is ever-changing, which I know can become quite overwhelming and lead to a lot of questions. Together, we can quit the dieting and get you back to the life that you have been dreaming of. No goal is too hefty, so do not hesitate to reach out!
My passion is to help you get nutritionally fit. Whether you are an athlete looking to enhance your performance or simply an individual looking for the motivation to get your health back – I am here to help you achieve your goals. Nutrition is ever-changing, which I know can become quite overwhelming and lead to a lot of questions. Together, we can quit the dieting and get you back to the life that you have been dreaming of. No goal is too hefty, so do not hesitate to reach out!
(443) 355-7021 View (443) 355-7021
Photo of Ellen M Griffiths, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Ellen M Griffiths
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Bethesda, MD 20814
Most often I work with clients with chronic issues like diabetes, overweight/obesity, high blood pressure and heart disease to adjust diets for good management of these conditions.
I meet clients where they are. If you aren't sure what you need, feel free to ask questions. I'm happy to share the benefit of more than 30 years of helping people meet their nutritional goals.
Most often I work with clients with chronic issues like diabetes, overweight/obesity, high blood pressure and heart disease to adjust diets for good management of these conditions.
I meet clients where they are. If you aren't sure what you need, feel free to ask questions. I'm happy to share the benefit of more than 30 years of helping people meet their nutritional goals.
(301) 960-5943 View (301) 960-5943
Photo of Brooke Mader Ganev - South Bay Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
South Bay Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board-certified Clinical & Integrative Nutritionist specializing in the functional medicine approach to nutrition. I help individuals find and address the root cause of imbalances rather than simply treating symptoms. In my practice, I provide individuals with personalized, whole-person care. I meet my clients where they are on their health journey. I believe every single person deserves to have the education and support they need in order to heal themselves and live a healthy life. I'd love to help you get started.
I am a board-certified Clinical & Integrative Nutritionist specializing in the functional medicine approach to nutrition. I help individuals find and address the root cause of imbalances rather than simply treating symptoms. In my practice, I provide individuals with personalized, whole-person care. I meet my clients where they are on their health journey. I believe every single person deserves to have the education and support they need in order to heal themselves and live a healthy life. I'd love to help you get started.
(424) 361-7755 View (424) 361-7755
Photo of Danielle Hendrix, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CEDS
Danielle Hendrix
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CEDS
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
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
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
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.