Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians in New Britain, PA

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Photo of Rosemary Couzens, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CDE, CIC
Rosemary Couzens
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CDE, CIC
Yardley, PA 19067
Nutrition is my mission! As a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, Certified Diabetes Educator and Intrinsic Coach, I have dedicated over 20 years to helping people achieve their best health. I enjoy helping my clients work through their struggles with weight, diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, thyroid issues, disordered eating and digestive problems. I now offer integrative functional nutrition therapy and nutrigenomix testing to allow us to dig deeper and get to the root cause of your health issues, in addition to alleviating the symptoms.
Nutrition is my mission! As a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, Certified Diabetes Educator and Intrinsic Coach, I have dedicated over 20 years to helping people achieve their best health. I enjoy helping my clients work through their struggles with weight, diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, thyroid issues, disordered eating and digestive problems. I now offer integrative functional nutrition therapy and nutrigenomix testing to allow us to dig deeper and get to the root cause of your health issues, in addition to alleviating the symptoms.
(215) 488-7309 View (215) 488-7309
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 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 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 Samantha Johnson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, MPH
Samantha Johnson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, MPH
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals seeking compassionate, inclusive nutrition support that considers the whole person, not just food choices. They may feel unsupported in traditional healthcare settings or want a more sustainable, non-restrictive approach to health. I provide a safe, judgment-free space using a Health-at-Every-Size (HAES), trauma-informed, and evidence-based approach. Together, we focus on realistic changes, adding supportive habits, and creating sustainable health goals that feel good in their body and fit their lived experience.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking compassionate, inclusive nutrition support that considers the whole person, not just food choices. They may feel unsupported in traditional healthcare settings or want a more sustainable, non-restrictive approach to health. I provide a safe, judgment-free space using a Health-at-Every-Size (HAES), trauma-informed, and evidence-based approach. Together, we focus on realistic changes, adding supportive habits, and creating sustainable health goals that feel good in their body and fit their lived experience.
(708) 847-5129 View (708) 847-5129
Photo of Kristen Braconnier, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Kristen Braconnier
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Serves Area
Do you feel completely overwhelmed by the vast amount of nutrition information on the internet? Do you feel frustrated that all of your hardwork isn't revealing the results you want? Have you hit a plateau with your progress? That's exactly how most of my clients feel before we meet! We work together to create a customized plan based on your schedule, lifestyle and goals so you feel that you are reaching your goals week by week! I specialize in sports nutrition, disordered eating, gastrointestinal issues, bariatric surgery, weight management, autoimmune disorders, pediatric nutrition and other medical nutrition therapies.
Do you feel completely overwhelmed by the vast amount of nutrition information on the internet? Do you feel frustrated that all of your hardwork isn't revealing the results you want? Have you hit a plateau with your progress? That's exactly how most of my clients feel before we meet! We work together to create a customized plan based on your schedule, lifestyle and goals so you feel that you are reaching your goals week by week! I specialize in sports nutrition, disordered eating, gastrointestinal issues, bariatric surgery, weight management, autoimmune disorders, pediatric nutrition and other medical nutrition therapies.
(610) 557-3956 View (610) 557-3956
Photo of Ashlee Hancock, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Ashlee Hancock
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
With both personal and professional experience in eating disorder recovery, this population is especially close to her heart.
Specialties: Eating disorders and disordered eating, intuitive eating, weight management, general nutrition, women’s health and wellness, Type II diabetes, and fostering a positive relationship with food and self in a safe, supportive environment.
With both personal and professional experience in eating disorder recovery, this population is especially close to her heart.
Specialties: Eating disorders and disordered eating, intuitive eating, weight management, general nutrition, women’s health and wellness, Type II diabetes, and fostering a positive relationship with food and self in a safe, supportive environment.
(515) 375-7850 View (515) 375-7850
Photo of Krista Yoder-latortue - Family Food, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LDN
Family Food, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LDN
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Family Food is a team of Registered Dietitians providing 1-on-1 nutrition counseling individualized to meet your needs! Our Registered Dietitian will work together with you on evidence-based strategies that will help you reach your goal. Since the nutrition counseling is 1-on-1 with the dietitian, the entire session can be customized to your needs. Popular topics we work with clients on include weight loss and management; health related issues like high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, etc; general healthy eating; parents concerned about their child's nutritional status; digestion issues; food allergies; and more!
Family Food is a team of Registered Dietitians providing 1-on-1 nutrition counseling individualized to meet your needs! Our Registered Dietitian will work together with you on evidence-based strategies that will help you reach your goal. Since the nutrition counseling is 1-on-1 with the dietitian, the entire session can be customized to your needs. Popular topics we work with clients on include weight loss and management; health related issues like high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, etc; general healthy eating; parents concerned about their child's nutritional status; digestion issues; food allergies; and more!
(866) 422-7138 View (866) 422-7138
Photo of Andrew Baer, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Andrew Baer
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
I embrace the idea that we are all different, therefore I address not only your nutritional needs but also your unique preferences, tastes, and lifestyles. Whether you are looking to lose weight, build muscle, lower cholesterol or blood sugar, improve digestive health, or even heal your relationship with food, I am here to help! My goal is to help people create a better relationship with food in a way that is fun and sustainable. I'm also committed to making sure my clients meet their nutrition and exercise goals as well. Overall, I love sharing my knowledge and enjoy helping others achieve their personal goals.
I embrace the idea that we are all different, therefore I address not only your nutritional needs but also your unique preferences, tastes, and lifestyles. Whether you are looking to lose weight, build muscle, lower cholesterol or blood sugar, improve digestive health, or even heal your relationship with food, I am here to help! My goal is to help people create a better relationship with food in a way that is fun and sustainable. I'm also committed to making sure my clients meet their nutrition and exercise goals as well. Overall, I love sharing my knowledge and enjoy helping others achieve their personal goals.
(215) 598-6472 View (215) 598-6472
Photo of Alison Swiggard, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Alison Swiggard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Online Only
I help people rebuild trust with food, eating, and their bodies without shame, rigid food rules, or weight-focused care. My work is grounded in a non-diet, weight-inclusive, and trauma-informed approach, with a focus on eating disorders, disordered eating, ADHD, PCOS, body image, and intuitive eating. Many of my clients come to me feeling exhausted by food noise, guilt around eating, inconsistent hunger cues, or the pressure to “get it right.” Together, we work toward steadier nourishment, more flexibility, and a relationship with food that feels less consuming and more supportive.
I help people rebuild trust with food, eating, and their bodies without shame, rigid food rules, or weight-focused care. My work is grounded in a non-diet, weight-inclusive, and trauma-informed approach, with a focus on eating disorders, disordered eating, ADHD, PCOS, body image, and intuitive eating. Many of my clients come to me feeling exhausted by food noise, guilt around eating, inconsistent hunger cues, or the pressure to “get it right.” Together, we work toward steadier nourishment, more flexibility, and a relationship with food that feels less consuming and more supportive.
(443) 381-0964 View (443) 381-0964
Photo of Julie Sokalski - Compleat Wellness Studio, LLC., Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CPT
Compleat Wellness Studio, LLC.
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CPT
Serves Area
Are you frustrated with counting calories and missing your favorite foods with little results? Would you like to avoid another medication, even get off of current medication or avoid a complications from a chronic disease? Are you an athlete looking to optimize your performance or are you working hard in the gym and not seeing the results you desire? Imagine being in your best health while enjoying your favorite foods, confidently navigating the grocery store, preparing wholesome & nutritious meals, putting your health first and sustaining ideal health & wellness. Let's start this journey now!
Are you frustrated with counting calories and missing your favorite foods with little results? Would you like to avoid another medication, even get off of current medication or avoid a complications from a chronic disease? Are you an athlete looking to optimize your performance or are you working hard in the gym and not seeing the results you desire? Imagine being in your best health while enjoying your favorite foods, confidently navigating the grocery store, preparing wholesome & nutritious meals, putting your health first and sustaining ideal health & wellness. Let's start this journey now!
(717) 294-0315 View (717) 294-0315
Photo of Heather Rudalavage, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Heather Rudalavage
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Newtown, PA 18940
Feel out of control around food? Tired of dieting, hate your body, want to lose weight or have medical concerns? Maybe a doctor told you that you need to lose weight or maybe you have just never been happy with your size. If you are frustrated that diets either don't work for you or cause you to cycle between restriction and overeating or you are uncomfortable in your body, I would love to set up a time to chat to see if we would be a good fit! I help clients like you feel good in their skin and improve their relationship with food! Contacting me is the first step in your journey to wellbeing.
Feel out of control around food? Tired of dieting, hate your body, want to lose weight or have medical concerns? Maybe a doctor told you that you need to lose weight or maybe you have just never been happy with your size. If you are frustrated that diets either don't work for you or cause you to cycle between restriction and overeating or you are uncomfortable in your body, I would love to set up a time to chat to see if we would be a good fit! I help clients like you feel good in their skin and improve their relationship with food! Contacting me is the first step in your journey to wellbeing.
(215) 385-5541 View (215) 385-5541
Photo of Erika Lannaman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Erika Lannaman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Erika specializes in women’s health, weight management, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 medications, PCOS, general healthy nutrition, meal planning, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, hypertension, heart conditions, fatty liver disease, and GERD.
Erika is a Registered Dietitian who helps clients build sustainable nutrition habits that support a life they feel good about. She takes a whole-body approach to understand each client’s health, lifestyle, and goals—considering food, sleep, stress, mindset, and daily routines. Erika believes meaningful change happens through collaboration, so she partners with clients to create realistic, empowering plans tailored to their preferences and needs, using a day-by-day approach for long-term success.
Erika specializes in women’s health, weight management, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 medications, PCOS, general healthy nutrition, meal planning, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, hypertension, heart conditions, fatty liver disease, and GERD.
Erika is a Registered Dietitian who helps clients build sustainable nutrition habits that support a life they feel good about. She takes a whole-body approach to understand each client’s health, lifestyle, and goals—considering food, sleep, stress, mindset, and daily routines. Erika believes meaningful change happens through collaboration, so she partners with clients to create realistic, empowering plans tailored to their preferences and needs, using a day-by-day approach for long-term success.
(470) 397-5913 View (470) 397-5913
Photo of Wendy Romig, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MS, CNS, LDN
Wendy Romig
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MS, CNS, LDN
Online Only
Doctor of Clinical Nutrition - Over 80% of clients who work with me start to see improvements within 3 weeks. At my clinic, Sage Integrative Health Center, I offer clinical expertise for a wide range of complex health concerns using functional nutrition, herbal medicine and wellness counseling. After your initial consultation, you will receive a comprehensive, customized therapeutic plan which includes my clinical assessment of your condition, nutritional strategies, meal plans, lifestyle recommendations, and areas for monitoring progress. Schedule a complimentary 15-minute phone call or introductory visit to learn more.
Doctor of Clinical Nutrition - Over 80% of clients who work with me start to see improvements within 3 weeks. At my clinic, Sage Integrative Health Center, I offer clinical expertise for a wide range of complex health concerns using functional nutrition, herbal medicine and wellness counseling. After your initial consultation, you will receive a comprehensive, customized therapeutic plan which includes my clinical assessment of your condition, nutritional strategies, meal plans, lifestyle recommendations, and areas for monitoring progress. Schedule a complimentary 15-minute phone call or introductory visit to learn more.
(215) 866-2417 View (215) 866-2417
Photo of Maddie McSweeney, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Maddie McSweeney
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Her areas of expertise include sports nutrition, general health and wellness, weight management, disordered eating, intuitive eating, lifestyle counseling, heart health, prediabetes, and diabetes management.
Maddie is a Registered Dietitian dedicated to helping people achieve their goals while feeling inspired and empowered. She is committed to enhancing individuals' quality of life and guiding them toward becoming the best, healthiest version of themselves through diet and lifestyle changes.
Her areas of expertise include sports nutrition, general health and wellness, weight management, disordered eating, intuitive eating, lifestyle counseling, heart health, prediabetes, and diabetes management.
Maddie is a Registered Dietitian dedicated to helping people achieve their goals while feeling inspired and empowered. She is committed to enhancing individuals' quality of life and guiding them toward becoming the best, healthiest version of themselves through diet and lifestyle changes.
(415) 881-1547 View (415) 881-1547
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 Olivia Marie Napoleon, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CDN
Olivia Marie Napoleon
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CDN
Online Only
Navigating health and nutrition can feel overwhelming—especially with all the conflicting advice out there. I work with clients recovering from eating disorders, managing disordered eating, or struggling to eat consistently due to ADHD or executive function challenges. My clients want to feel more at ease with food and their bodies, without turning to restrictive diets or shame. Together, we’ll create a supportive, personalized plan to help you feel confident, nourished, and empowered in your daily life.
Navigating health and nutrition can feel overwhelming—especially with all the conflicting advice out there. I work with clients recovering from eating disorders, managing disordered eating, or struggling to eat consistently due to ADHD or executive function challenges. My clients want to feel more at ease with food and their bodies, without turning to restrictive diets or shame. Together, we’ll create a supportive, personalized plan to help you feel confident, nourished, and empowered in your daily life.
(610) 686-9633 View (610) 686-9633
Photo of Anna Velazquez, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Anna Velazquez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Anna is a Registered Dietitian that practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and pediatrics with a history of GI disorders (Celiac, IBS, Low-FODMAP, IBD, Constipation, GERD, lactase and sucrase deficiency), Healthy Eating, Food Allergies, and Pediatric Nutrition. She works collaboratively with clients to set realistic and practical goals reflective of individualized nutrition plans. She believes that balanced nutrition looks differently for everyone, and client’s medical history needs to be considered along with their resources, schedules, and circumstances.
Anna is a Registered Dietitian that practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and pediatrics with a history of GI disorders (Celiac, IBS, Low-FODMAP, IBD, Constipation, GERD, lactase and sucrase deficiency), Healthy Eating, Food Allergies, and Pediatric Nutrition. She works collaboratively with clients to set realistic and practical goals reflective of individualized nutrition plans. She believes that balanced nutrition looks differently for everyone, and client’s medical history needs to be considered along with their resources, schedules, and circumstances.
(561) 709-2317 View (561) 709-2317
Photo of Olena Zinshtein, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Olena Zinshtein
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Olena Zinshtein, founder of Key Nutrition LLC is a registered dietitian. Olena has been working with a variety of patient populations including but not limited to managing Diabetes, Heart disease, Renal disease, Gastrointestinal disorders, weight loss/gain, and food allergies. Olena works closely with her clients learning what their struggle with food is in order to help them establish a healthy relationship with food. She provides knowledge and tools for a long-term success in achieving client’s goals to fit personal lifestyle, health concerns, and food preferences. Olena practices medical nutrition therapy based on the latest evidence based research.
Olena Zinshtein, founder of Key Nutrition LLC is a registered dietitian. Olena has been working with a variety of patient populations including but not limited to managing Diabetes, Heart disease, Renal disease, Gastrointestinal disorders, weight loss/gain, and food allergies. Olena works closely with her clients learning what their struggle with food is in order to help them establish a healthy relationship with food. She provides knowledge and tools for a long-term success in achieving client’s goals to fit personal lifestyle, health concerns, and food preferences. Olena practices medical nutrition therapy based on the latest evidence based research.
(215) 488-7290 View (215) 488-7290
Photo of Kristie L Finnan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Kristie L Finnan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18902
Looking to improve your health & wellness? Every client is different. Let me help you individualize a plan to meet your needs. Whether you are looking to lose weight, improve your digestive health (I specialize in the Low FODMAP diet) lower cholesterol or blood sugar, I am happy to help! I also have experience and am passionate about helping athletes eat right for top performance. Food is fuel. Let me help you figure out the best fuel for you! I am a Registered Dietitian/Licensed Nutritionist in Doylestown, PA (NOTE: I also offer tele-health and phone consults for those too far away) Book appointment online: www.EatRightBucks.com
Looking to improve your health & wellness? Every client is different. Let me help you individualize a plan to meet your needs. Whether you are looking to lose weight, improve your digestive health (I specialize in the Low FODMAP diet) lower cholesterol or blood sugar, I am happy to help! I also have experience and am passionate about helping athletes eat right for top performance. Food is fuel. Let me help you figure out the best fuel for you! I am a Registered Dietitian/Licensed Nutritionist in Doylestown, PA (NOTE: I also offer tele-health and phone consults for those too far away) Book appointment online: www.EatRightBucks.com
(267) 573-8057 View (267) 573-8057
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.