Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians in Seattle, WA

Photo of Sofia Colantuono, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Sofia Colantuono
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
She also works with clients interested in Heart Health, Body Image concerns, vegan/vegetarian diets, and others areas.
Sofia is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive issues (IBS, IBD, Low FODMAP), Hormonal Imbalances (PCOS, etc.), and interested in Sports Nutrition. Sofia is passionate about helping others build a positive relationship with food and their bodies. Nutrition is not one-size-fits all, and Sofia believes in the importance of having a client-centered approach and providing personalized nutrition care. Her past experiences have driven her desire to help others reach lifestyle changes in a sustainable and practical way.
She also works with clients interested in Heart Health, Body Image concerns, vegan/vegetarian diets, and others areas.
Sofia is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive issues (IBS, IBD, Low FODMAP), Hormonal Imbalances (PCOS, etc.), and interested in Sports Nutrition. Sofia is passionate about helping others build a positive relationship with food and their bodies. Nutrition is not one-size-fits all, and Sofia believes in the importance of having a client-centered approach and providing personalized nutrition care. Her past experiences have driven her desire to help others reach lifestyle changes in a sustainable and practical way.
(206) 590-4794 View (206) 590-4794
Photo of Emmy Bright, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, LDN
Emmy Bright
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, LDN
Serves Area
I specialize in providing HAES-based medical nutrition therapy for chronic conditions including GI Disorders (IBS, Celiac, GERD, & many more), Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Diabetes, Heart Health, Pregnancy, Menopause, Vegan/Vegetarian Diets, Food Allergies, and Autoimmune Conditions.
You’re the expert of your own body, and I'm here to listen and support you. My work is rooted in Intuitive Eating, so I'll help you have a healthy & balanced relationship with food by sharing non-restrictive, research-backed nutrition recommendations instead of food rules, strict diets, and questionable nutrition BS recycled from social media.
I specialize in providing HAES-based medical nutrition therapy for chronic conditions including GI Disorders (IBS, Celiac, GERD, & many more), Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Diabetes, Heart Health, Pregnancy, Menopause, Vegan/Vegetarian Diets, Food Allergies, and Autoimmune Conditions.
You’re the expert of your own body, and I'm here to listen and support you. My work is rooted in Intuitive Eating, so I'll help you have a healthy & balanced relationship with food by sharing non-restrictive, research-backed nutrition recommendations instead of food rules, strict diets, and questionable nutrition BS recycled from social media.
(608) 535-6692 View (608) 535-6692
Photo of Adrianna (Andie) Hauck, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Adrianna (Andie) Hauck
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties include pediatrics, weight management, meal planning, endocrine related disorders (diabetes, failure to thrive, high cholesterol, obesity, insulin resistance, thyroid disorders), sports nutrition, heart health, and general healthy eating strategies.
Andie is a Registered Dietitian with a commitment to improve the health of her clients while establishing a relationship with food that is sustainable and fun. Andie believes that eating should be an enjoyable experience that both nourishes our bodies and tastes good too! She loves to help clients plan meals that they look forward to eating. Clients will learn the amazing things that food can do for our bodies that will encourage longevity and a higher quality of life. She also has a passion for sports nutrition and how food can help one reach their performance goals. She looks forward to helping you on your wellness journey.
Specialties include pediatrics, weight management, meal planning, endocrine related disorders (diabetes, failure to thrive, high cholesterol, obesity, insulin resistance, thyroid disorders), sports nutrition, heart health, and general healthy eating strategies.
Andie is a Registered Dietitian with a commitment to improve the health of her clients while establishing a relationship with food that is sustainable and fun. Andie believes that eating should be an enjoyable experience that both nourishes our bodies and tastes good too! She loves to help clients plan meals that they look forward to eating. Clients will learn the amazing things that food can do for our bodies that will encourage longevity and a higher quality of life. She also has a passion for sports nutrition and how food can help one reach their performance goals. She looks forward to helping you on your wellness journey.
(971) 365-3205 View (971) 365-3205
Photo of Jody Halouska, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
Jody Halouska
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
Serves Area
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 Katrina Darling Friedman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MD, RD, LDN
Katrina Darling Friedman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MD, RD, LDN
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties include PCOS, PMS, Hormonal Acne, Infertility/fertility optimization, Reproductive Health, Perinatal nutrition, Digestive Disorders (Constipation, Diarrhea, GERD/Acid Reflux, Bloating, Abdominal Pain, Gassiness), Chronic stress, Metabolic dysfunction (Blood Sugar Imbalances, Insulin Resistance, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, heart health and more
Katrina is a registered dietitian and functional practitioner specializing in women's health and metabolic conditions. Her mission is to guide clients from overwhelm to ease, and empower them with a better understanding of their own needs to help them reconnect with their bodies, optimize their fertility, and transform their lives with targeted nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement therapies. Katrina takes a non-restrictive, food-first, root-cause approach to functional care. Katrina encourages her clients to take charge of their healing journey through her education-focused sessions and communication style.
Specialties include PCOS, PMS, Hormonal Acne, Infertility/fertility optimization, Reproductive Health, Perinatal nutrition, Digestive Disorders (Constipation, Diarrhea, GERD/Acid Reflux, Bloating, Abdominal Pain, Gassiness), Chronic stress, Metabolic dysfunction (Blood Sugar Imbalances, Insulin Resistance, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, heart health and more
Katrina is a registered dietitian and functional practitioner specializing in women's health and metabolic conditions. Her mission is to guide clients from overwhelm to ease, and empower them with a better understanding of their own needs to help them reconnect with their bodies, optimize their fertility, and transform their lives with targeted nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement therapies. Katrina takes a non-restrictive, food-first, root-cause approach to functional care. Katrina encourages her clients to take charge of their healing journey through her education-focused sessions and communication style.
(321) 475-6080 View (321) 475-6080
Photo of Katy Lane, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Katy Lane
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Online Only
Are you or your family wanting to eat healthier, but feeling overwhelmed by the information out there and not sure where to start? Sure, you can put "meal plan for xyz" into ChatGPT- but it won't know YOUR specific preferences, health history, goals, or support you along the way. This is where I come in! As a registered dietitian, I use scientific data to help adults and children find the foods and meal plan that meet their needs. I'll help you sort through the fads and false claims and focus in on an optimal nutrition plan that's just right for you.
Are you or your family wanting to eat healthier, but feeling overwhelmed by the information out there and not sure where to start? Sure, you can put "meal plan for xyz" into ChatGPT- but it won't know YOUR specific preferences, health history, goals, or support you along the way. This is where I come in! As a registered dietitian, I use scientific data to help adults and children find the foods and meal plan that meet their needs. I'll help you sort through the fads and false claims and focus in on an optimal nutrition plan that's just right for you.
(425) 321-3361 View (425) 321-3361
Photo of Maria Taylor, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Maria Taylor
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Nutrition has the power to transform your health and life, but it doesn’t need to be a source of stress. I’ll work with you to find flexibility with food, so you can reach the right balance between satisfaction and health, allowing you to build habits that last. If you feel out of control with food, struggle with repetitive dieting, or find it hard to make lasting changes, I’m here to guide you on a journey of self-discovery. Together, we’ll take a big-picture approach to uncover and address the root causes of your eating challenges, helping you reconnect with your natural ability to regulate your eating.
Nutrition has the power to transform your health and life, but it doesn’t need to be a source of stress. I’ll work with you to find flexibility with food, so you can reach the right balance between satisfaction and health, allowing you to build habits that last. If you feel out of control with food, struggle with repetitive dieting, or find it hard to make lasting changes, I’m here to guide you on a journey of self-discovery. Together, we’ll take a big-picture approach to uncover and address the root causes of your eating challenges, helping you reconnect with your natural ability to regulate your eating.
(425) 600-7905 View (425) 600-7905
Photo of Alex Gavronsky, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CNSC
Alex Gavronsky
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CNSC
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Alex is a board-certified lead dietitian at one of New York's largest hospitals. He started his private practice to improve access to nutritional counseling and build deep, long-term relationships with patients who are managing nutrition-related health conditions. His work focuses on patients with both chronic and acute/severe conditions, ranging from rapid weight change to cancer. Regardless of health reason, Alex strives to always create a kind and caring environment for his patients.
Alex is a board-certified lead dietitian at one of New York's largest hospitals. He started his private practice to improve access to nutritional counseling and build deep, long-term relationships with patients who are managing nutrition-related health conditions. His work focuses on patients with both chronic and acute/severe conditions, ranging from rapid weight change to cancer. Regardless of health reason, Alex strives to always create a kind and caring environment for his patients.
(716) 576-3638 View (716) 576-3638
Photo of Sarah Ervin, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS
Sarah Ervin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS
Online Only
Are you ready to take control of your health and feel your best? If you're dealing with challenges like PCOS, high cholesterol, hypertension, or other concerns, I'm here to help. Together, we’ll create a personalized nutrition plan that fits your lifestyle and long-term goals. I’ll provide culturally sensitive, whole-body care to guide you toward sustainable habits, improved energy, and better overall health. With virtual, insurance-covered sessions, you’ll have the support and clarity you need to thrive. Let’s work together to help you feel confident and in control of your health!
Are you ready to take control of your health and feel your best? If you're dealing with challenges like PCOS, high cholesterol, hypertension, or other concerns, I'm here to help. Together, we’ll create a personalized nutrition plan that fits your lifestyle and long-term goals. I’ll provide culturally sensitive, whole-body care to guide you toward sustainable habits, improved energy, and better overall health. With virtual, insurance-covered sessions, you’ll have the support and clarity you need to thrive. Let’s work together to help you feel confident and in control of your health!
(425) 534-7581 View (425) 534-7581
Photo of Joanne Llaury-Marks - Nutritional Ascent, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSCN
Nutritional Ascent
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSCN
Online Only
Looking for a way to improve eating behaviors, gut issues, or hormone imbalancement? Do doctors says that everything looks normal but you know that something is off? We help you by looking for the root cause and use a weight neutral, and shame-fee approach to support you so you can eat healthier, manage cravings, improve sleep, and increase your energy so that you can experience more memories with your family.
Looking for a way to improve eating behaviors, gut issues, or hormone imbalancement? Do doctors says that everything looks normal but you know that something is off? We help you by looking for the root cause and use a weight neutral, and shame-fee approach to support you so you can eat healthier, manage cravings, improve sleep, and increase your energy so that you can experience more memories with your family.
(435) 246-1823 View (435) 246-1823
Photo of Sarah Lawson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD
Sarah Lawson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
Exhausted from diets? Overwhelmed by social media telling you what to do? Working with me, I help you learn how to best meet your body's needs without toxic diet culture trends. As a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, I assist my clients in establishing a healthy relationship with food and their body. Additionally, I can help you manage health-conditions including IBS, PCOS, Hashimoto's, and Diabetes using realistic interventions custom fit to your needs. I can also help you to navigate realistic Nutrition recommendations customized for your needs.
Exhausted from diets? Overwhelmed by social media telling you what to do? Working with me, I help you learn how to best meet your body's needs without toxic diet culture trends. As a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, I assist my clients in establishing a healthy relationship with food and their body. Additionally, I can help you manage health-conditions including IBS, PCOS, Hashimoto's, and Diabetes using realistic interventions custom fit to your needs. I can also help you to navigate realistic Nutrition recommendations customized for your needs.
(206) 558-0645 View (206) 558-0645
Photo of Virginia Alcalde, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, LMHC, RDN , CD
Virginia Alcalde
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, LMHC, RDN , CD
Online Only
Hello, I am Virginia (Gigi) a registered dietitian, psychotherapist, and yoga and mindfulness teacher. I specialize in supporting individuals struggling with eating disorders/disordered eating, are in a journey of healing their relationships with food and exercise and want reconnection with their bodies. I also provide individualized medical nutrition therapy for diverse health conditions from a weight inclusive approach. In addition, I specialize in mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and trauma and support clients with nutrition and mental health counseling to improve symptoms and feel better.
Hello, I am Virginia (Gigi) a registered dietitian, psychotherapist, and yoga and mindfulness teacher. I specialize in supporting individuals struggling with eating disorders/disordered eating, are in a journey of healing their relationships with food and exercise and want reconnection with their bodies. I also provide individualized medical nutrition therapy for diverse health conditions from a weight inclusive approach. In addition, I specialize in mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and trauma and support clients with nutrition and mental health counseling to improve symptoms and feel better.
(206) 558-8474 View (206) 558-8474
Photo of Ashley Bent, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Ashley Bent
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Online Only
As both a Sports-, and Eating Disorders Dietitian, I've had the pleasure of helping athletes achieve personal records, recover faster, heal from injuries, and reach new levels of performance, in addition to helping people improve their relationship with food and their body as they navigate recovery from an eating disorder or disordered eating.
As both a Sports-, and Eating Disorders Dietitian, I've had the pleasure of helping athletes achieve personal records, recover faster, heal from injuries, and reach new levels of performance, in addition to helping people improve their relationship with food and their body as they navigate recovery from an eating disorder or disordered eating.
(206) 759-2366 View (206) 759-2366
Photo of Kathleen Putnam, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Kathleen Putnam
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Seattle, WA 98105
My mission and vision is to prevent needless suffering caused by hurtful messaging and misinformation from our culture, family, or health care system that disrupts the connection and/or enjoyment of your body, food, and eating. Shame, guilt, and stigma have no place in healthcare. I am committed to providing trauma informed care and seek to help provide tools and skills to help learn to self regulate and improve tolerance connecting the body and eating. I provide practical, realistic strategies resulting in long-term success. Stop overthinking food, hating your body, emotional eating, or regrets. I'm here to help!
My mission and vision is to prevent needless suffering caused by hurtful messaging and misinformation from our culture, family, or health care system that disrupts the connection and/or enjoyment of your body, food, and eating. Shame, guilt, and stigma have no place in healthcare. I am committed to providing trauma informed care and seek to help provide tools and skills to help learn to self regulate and improve tolerance connecting the body and eating. I provide practical, realistic strategies resulting in long-term success. Stop overthinking food, hating your body, emotional eating, or regrets. I'm here to help!
(206) 258-8191 View (206) 258-8191
Photo of Johanna Richter, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, LDN
Johanna Richter
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121
Having trouble coping with food, nutrition, and your health, especially with the recent stress of COVID-19? Many people are experiencing stress-related changes in emotions, eating behaviors, and physical symptoms, including digestive issues. Whether these experiences are new to you or related to something you dealt with in the past, I’m here to help.
Having trouble coping with food, nutrition, and your health, especially with the recent stress of COVID-19? Many people are experiencing stress-related changes in emotions, eating behaviors, and physical symptoms, including digestive issues. Whether these experiences are new to you or related to something you dealt with in the past, I’m here to help.
(206) 785-3724 View (206) 785-3724
Photo of Shelly Najjar, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN
Shelly Najjar
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN
Online Only
Ready to develop a better relationship with food, even with ADHD? Want something freeing and stress-reducing… that works with, not against, your brain, lifestyle, schedule, and responsibilities? You've been working so hard. Imagine what life could be like with less guilt, negative self-talk, and unsatisfying food choices. What if you could feel nourished and confident around food, have energy for your day, and trust your body?
Ready to develop a better relationship with food, even with ADHD? Want something freeing and stress-reducing… that works with, not against, your brain, lifestyle, schedule, and responsibilities? You've been working so hard. Imagine what life could be like with less guilt, negative self-talk, and unsatisfying food choices. What if you could feel nourished and confident around food, have energy for your day, and trust your body?
(206) 717-8543 View (206) 717-8543
Photo of Lauren Leedy, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Lauren Leedy
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Seattle, WA 98133
Nearly a decade into my dietetic practice, I know the recipe for success. I’ve worked with clients perplexed with weight loss and weight gain alike. I’ve worked with infants and ninety year olds, ultra marathon athletes and those struggling to get off the couch. One thing I know for sure is that eating healthy doesn’t have to be hard. I’m here to teach you how to make it easy. I specialize in creating unique strategies and solutions for the busiest of people to meet their personal health goals.
Nearly a decade into my dietetic practice, I know the recipe for success. I’ve worked with clients perplexed with weight loss and weight gain alike. I’ve worked with infants and ninety year olds, ultra marathon athletes and those struggling to get off the couch. One thing I know for sure is that eating healthy doesn’t have to be hard. I’m here to teach you how to make it easy. I specialize in creating unique strategies and solutions for the busiest of people to meet their personal health goals.
(206) 350-8957 View (206) 350-8957
Photo of Nicole Thelan - Experience Momentum , Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Experience Momentum
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Seattle, WA 98103
As weight-neutral providers, we understand that food is social, emotional, and cultural. One way of eating doesn’t fit all, and knowing which foods optimally fuel your body is complex. Our goal is to empower you with nutritional education, support, and strategy so you can live the life you choose.
As weight-neutral providers, we understand that food is social, emotional, and cultural. One way of eating doesn’t fit all, and knowing which foods optimally fuel your body is complex. Our goal is to empower you with nutritional education, support, and strategy so you can live the life you choose.
(206) 278-1909 View (206) 278-1909
Photo of Rochelle Adriano, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CD
Rochelle Adriano
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CD
Online Only
Food is meant to nourish, connect, and bring joy—not be a source of stress or confusion. With so much conflicting nutrition advice out there, it can be hard to decipher what truly supports your well-being. I’m here to help you navigate nutrition in a way that feels sustainable, fulfilling, and aligned with your unique needs. As a weight-inclusive dietitian, I believe that health is not defined by a number on the scale and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nourishment.
Food is meant to nourish, connect, and bring joy—not be a source of stress or confusion. With so much conflicting nutrition advice out there, it can be hard to decipher what truly supports your well-being. I’m here to help you navigate nutrition in a way that feels sustainable, fulfilling, and aligned with your unique needs. As a weight-inclusive dietitian, I believe that health is not defined by a number on the scale and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nourishment.
(206) 207-9787 View (206) 207-9787
Photo of Beve Kindblade - Seattle Nutrition - Beve Kindblade Consulting, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Seattle Nutrition - Beve Kindblade Consulting
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Online Only
Experience counts! Why trust your nutritional health to just anyone? Private practice offers a unique opportunity to discuss your health and wellness goals; any medical issues; and evaluate your latest labs (or any labs needed) to see how you are digesting and absorbing nutrients from your diet and supplements. Beve will create a customized Nutrition Care Plan for you. Tired? Sleep issues? Weight changes? Let's find out "why?" Combining the best of traditional medicine with a natural health approach has been Beve's intention and purpose with clients for more than 32 years. Seattle Nutrition - the missing L-I-N-K in your healthcare.
Experience counts! Why trust your nutritional health to just anyone? Private practice offers a unique opportunity to discuss your health and wellness goals; any medical issues; and evaluate your latest labs (or any labs needed) to see how you are digesting and absorbing nutrients from your diet and supplements. Beve will create a customized Nutrition Care Plan for you. Tired? Sleep issues? Weight changes? Let's find out "why?" Combining the best of traditional medicine with a natural health approach has been Beve's intention and purpose with clients for more than 32 years. Seattle Nutrition - the missing L-I-N-K in your healthcare.
(206) 745-0525 View (206) 745-0525
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.