Diet - preventative strategy

Question
Hello Todd,

I am 30 years old, 175 lbs., and approx. six feet tall.  Although I am in good health now, my family (father's side) has a history of heart problems.  So, I'd like to start eating with this in mind...  I've read about antioxidants, and their apparent ability to strengthen arterial walls, and promote heart health.  What is your idea of a heart conscious diet?

Thanks,
Paul

Answer
Paul,

Unfortunately, antioxidant supplements have shown to be a bust when it comes to heart health.  There are now over a dozen clinical studies that show antioxidant supplements have no benefit to cardiovascular health, and even a couple of studies that suggest they may even be harmful.  Here is a link to Clinical Studies of Vitamin Supplements on Cardiovascular Disease:
http://home.comcast.net/~lipid-clinic/vitaminstudies.html

The basics of a healthy diet are:
* Eat a diet low in saturated fats (animal fats) and trans-fatty acids (margarine or shortening).
* Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables.
* Eat a variety of grain products, especially whole grains (complex carbohydrates).
* Limit sugars and low nutrient foods high in sugar such as soda pop, candy, etc. (simple carbohydrates).
* Eat an appropriate number of calories to maintain a healthy weight.


Some good food choices may also include low-fat dairy products, fish and nuts.

Here are some links to give you more info:
http://www.deliciousdecisions.org/
http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=1330
http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=1200010

I hope this helps.

Best wishes,

Todd
www.lipid-clinic.com

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