Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians in Marion County, OR

Photo of Sandra L. Moreno - Sandra L Moreno | NutriSandraRD | SLMC, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MBA, RDN, LD, CDCES
Sandra L Moreno | NutriSandraRD | SLMC, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MBA, RDN, LD, CDCES
Keizer, OR 97303
I am experienced in heart health (cholesterol, high blood pressure), kidney disease, disordered eating, prediabetes, weight management and healthy eating.
I am committed to being an inclusive dietetic practice that weaves diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) into my practice. I follow the principles of being healthy at every size and will work with you on your medical nutritional therapy needs while honoring your culture.
I am experienced in heart health (cholesterol, high blood pressure), kidney disease, disordered eating, prediabetes, weight management and healthy eating.
I am committed to being an inclusive dietetic practice that weaves diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) into my practice. I follow the principles of being healthy at every size and will work with you on your medical nutritional therapy needs while honoring your culture.
(971) 224-7356 View (971) 224-7356
Photo of Lisa Marie Hublitz - Hublitz Medical Nutrition Therapy, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CDCES
Hublitz Medical Nutrition Therapy, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CDCES
Salem, OR 97306
Virtual sessions preferred at this time. Will do home visit in Salem (clinic room pending). Experienced Registered Dietitian with a demonstrated history of working in the health wellness and fitness industry. Skilled in Nutrition and Diabetes Education, Weight Management, Pediatrics, and Healthcare. Diabetes Care and Education Specialist / Certified Diabetes Educator (CDCES) 2009 - current • Certificate in Adult Obesity Management 11/2015 • Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition (CSP) Year 2010 - 2015 • Fax Referrals to 503-447-2063
Virtual sessions preferred at this time. Will do home visit in Salem (clinic room pending). Experienced Registered Dietitian with a demonstrated history of working in the health wellness and fitness industry. Skilled in Nutrition and Diabetes Education, Weight Management, Pediatrics, and Healthcare. Diabetes Care and Education Specialist / Certified Diabetes Educator (CDCES) 2009 - current • Certificate in Adult Obesity Management 11/2015 • Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition (CSP) Year 2010 - 2015 • Fax Referrals to 503-447-2063
(503) 461-0154 View (503) 461-0154
Photo of Dana Bean - No Guilt Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
No Guilt Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Many find themselves feeling stressed and out of control around food. Though it is common, it doesn't have to be your reality! We can work on building nutrition knowledge and a plan to help you learn to trust your body to fuel yourself instead of using a long list of diet rules. I work with clients with disordered eating habits as well as a variety of conditions including binge eating disorder, other eating disorders, diabetes, meal logistics with ADHD or other neurodivergence, prediaebtes, high cholesterol, hyperlipidemia, digestive issues, GERD, and more.
Many find themselves feeling stressed and out of control around food. Though it is common, it doesn't have to be your reality! We can work on building nutrition knowledge and a plan to help you learn to trust your body to fuel yourself instead of using a long list of diet rules. I work with clients with disordered eating habits as well as a variety of conditions including binge eating disorder, other eating disorders, diabetes, meal logistics with ADHD or other neurodivergence, prediaebtes, high cholesterol, hyperlipidemia, digestive issues, GERD, and more.
(541) 631-5142 View (541) 631-5142
Photo of Paige Becker, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CD
Paige Becker
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CD
Online Only
Hello! I'm a Registered Dietitian who's passionate about providing individualized nutrition care that considers the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. I aim to help clients improve their relationships with food, self-care, and their bodies from a Health At Every Size (HAES) perspective. My counseling approach is based in Intuitive Eating principles and bolstered by somatics and self-compassion-focused behavior change techniques. I'm also aware of the importance of nervous system regulation for positive, sustainable behavior change, thus I'm a proponent of the healing capacity of sensory-engaging practices (like art!)
Hello! I'm a Registered Dietitian who's passionate about providing individualized nutrition care that considers the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. I aim to help clients improve their relationships with food, self-care, and their bodies from a Health At Every Size (HAES) perspective. My counseling approach is based in Intuitive Eating principles and bolstered by somatics and self-compassion-focused behavior change techniques. I'm also aware of the importance of nervous system regulation for positive, sustainable behavior change, thus I'm a proponent of the healing capacity of sensory-engaging practices (like art!)
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Photo of Liat Nadler, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MScN, CN, CNS, LD, LPF
Liat Nadler
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MScN, CN, CNS, LD, LPF
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Cary Fardal - HealthyU Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CPT
HealthyU Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CPT
Serves Area
I provide evidence-based nutrition and health guidance to help you build a sustainable, healthier lifestyle. Whether you're managing a chronic condition or simply looking to improve your overall well-being, we will work together to create a personalized approach that fits your needs and goals. My focus is on helping you discover what works best for you—so you can make lasting, meaningful changes with confidence.
I provide evidence-based nutrition and health guidance to help you build a sustainable, healthier lifestyle. Whether you're managing a chronic condition or simply looking to improve your overall well-being, we will work together to create a personalized approach that fits your needs and goals. My focus is on helping you discover what works best for you—so you can make lasting, meaningful changes with confidence.
(971) 297-3065 View (971) 297-3065
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

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Lydia Fredeen - New Leaf Nutrition Counseling, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, LD
New Leaf Nutrition Counseling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, LD
Online Only
We are a group practice of Registered Dietitians who specialize in eating disorder recovery, intuitive eating, and an anti-diet approach to wellness. We serve folks virtually in WA and OR and are based in Portland, OR. We value client-centered care by meeting clients where they’re at while providing supportive encouragement for clients to reach towards their goals.
We are a group practice of Registered Dietitians who specialize in eating disorder recovery, intuitive eating, and an anti-diet approach to wellness. We serve folks virtually in WA and OR and are based in Portland, OR. We value client-centered care by meeting clients where they’re at while providing supportive encouragement for clients to reach towards their goals.
(971) 257-1409 View (971) 257-1409
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 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 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
Photo of Sharon Ona - Sharon Ona , Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Sharon Ona
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Online Only
Are you ready to stop feeling tired, frustrated, and overwhelmed with brain fog, low energy, and difficulty following through with ADHD, or blood sugar ups and downs, weight struggles, and concerning labs tied to cardiometabolic health? You don’t have to figure this out alone. As a Board-Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) I use a functional medicine approach to help you develop sustainable diet and lifestyle changes so you can feel your best. Through personalized 1:1 counseling, you’ll receive science-based strategies, practical tools, and accountability to help you improve energy, regulate blood sugar, and feel more in control.
Are you ready to stop feeling tired, frustrated, and overwhelmed with brain fog, low energy, and difficulty following through with ADHD, or blood sugar ups and downs, weight struggles, and concerning labs tied to cardiometabolic health? You don’t have to figure this out alone. As a Board-Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) I use a functional medicine approach to help you develop sustainable diet and lifestyle changes so you can feel your best. Through personalized 1:1 counseling, you’ll receive science-based strategies, practical tools, and accountability to help you improve energy, regulate blood sugar, and feel more in control.
(503) 213-6432 View (503) 213-6432
Photo of Gina Garrett - Permission Nutrition LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPP, RD, LD
Permission Nutrition LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPP, RD, LD
Online Only
Do you struggle with an eating disorder or disordered eating? I would love to support you on your journey to free yourself from a negative relationship with food and your body! I offer nutrition counseling for those diagnosed with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder and OSFED. Disordered eating occurs on a spectrum and you do not need to be diagnosed with an eating disorder to be suffering! I also offer nutrition counseling services to help you achieve your health goals whether or not you feel you have disordered eating patterns.
Do you struggle with an eating disorder or disordered eating? I would love to support you on your journey to free yourself from a negative relationship with food and your body! I offer nutrition counseling for those diagnosed with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder and OSFED. Disordered eating occurs on a spectrum and you do not need to be diagnosed with an eating disorder to be suffering! I also offer nutrition counseling services to help you achieve your health goals whether or not you feel you have disordered eating patterns.
(971) 803-5192 View (971) 803-5192
Photo of Bailie Devlin, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Bailie Devlin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
Specialties include: General Health, Weight Loss/Gain, PCOS, Type 2 Diabetes, Insulin Resistance, Hypothyroidism, Eating Disorders, Ketogenic Diet, and Heart Health.
Bailie is a Registered Dietitian with experience in weight loss, eating disorders and performance nutrition. She believes food is medicine and is dedicated to helping you create a positive relationship with food and movement while working together towards your goals. Bailie believes nutrition is not one size fits all and works with the patient to develop customized care based on the their goals, needs and lifestyle.
Specialties include: General Health, Weight Loss/Gain, PCOS, Type 2 Diabetes, Insulin Resistance, Hypothyroidism, Eating Disorders, Ketogenic Diet, and Heart Health.
Bailie is a Registered Dietitian with experience in weight loss, eating disorders and performance nutrition. She believes food is medicine and is dedicated to helping you create a positive relationship with food and movement while working together towards your goals. Bailie believes nutrition is not one size fits all and works with the patient to develop customized care based on the their goals, needs and lifestyle.
(816) 409-1516 View (816) 409-1516
Photo of Bailie Devlin, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Bailie Devlin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Specialties include: General Health, Weight Loss/Gain, PCOS, Type 2 Diabetes, Insulin Resistance, Hypothyroidism, Eating Disorders, and Heart Health.
Bailie is a Registered Dietitian with experience in weight loss, eating disorders and performance nutrition. She believes food is medicine and is dedicated to helping you create a positive relationship with food and movement while working together towards your goals. Bailie believes nutrition is not one size fits all and works with the patient to develop customized care based on the their goals, needs and lifestyle.
Specialties include: General Health, Weight Loss/Gain, PCOS, Type 2 Diabetes, Insulin Resistance, Hypothyroidism, Eating Disorders, and Heart Health.
Bailie is a Registered Dietitian with experience in weight loss, eating disorders and performance nutrition. She believes food is medicine and is dedicated to helping you create a positive relationship with food and movement while working together towards your goals. Bailie believes nutrition is not one size fits all and works with the patient to develop customized care based on the their goals, needs and lifestyle.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of Chelsea Saltzman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Chelsea Saltzman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212
My ideal client can be of any age or background. They may be seeking weight loss, better performance, improved labs, muscle gain, or a healthier relationship with food. What matters most is that they’re open to problem-solving—willing to examine habits with curiosity, apply evidence practically, and use accountability to measure progress. They understand that change requires consistency, reflection, and course correction; if they’re not fully ready, they’re willing to explore what’s in the way.
My ideal client can be of any age or background. They may be seeking weight loss, better performance, improved labs, muscle gain, or a healthier relationship with food. What matters most is that they’re open to problem-solving—willing to examine habits with curiosity, apply evidence practically, and use accountability to measure progress. They understand that change requires consistency, reflection, and course correction; if they’re not fully ready, they’re willing to explore what’s in the way.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
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 Cindy Wu, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Cindy Wu
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97236
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.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
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 Ruth Thompson Murillo, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Ruth Thompson Murillo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Specialties include bariatrics, weight management, binge eating, prediabetes, diabetes, mindful eating, intuitive eating, prenatal and postnatal nutrition, health and wellness, GI issues, IBS/IBD, heart health, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, fatty liver disease, picky eating, vegan/vegetarian diets, and PCOS.
I am a registered dietitian with over 13 years of experience helping individuals make lifestyle changes to improve their health and achieve their goals. I practice with empathy and understanding in a nonjudgmental environment where you can truly be yourself and trust that you will be fully supported.
Specialties include bariatrics, weight management, binge eating, prediabetes, diabetes, mindful eating, intuitive eating, prenatal and postnatal nutrition, health and wellness, GI issues, IBS/IBD, heart health, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, fatty liver disease, picky eating, vegan/vegetarian diets, and PCOS.
I am a registered dietitian with over 13 years of experience helping individuals make lifestyle changes to improve their health and achieve their goals. I practice with empathy and understanding in a nonjudgmental environment where you can truly be yourself and trust that you will be fully supported.
(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.