Risk factor modifications for cardiovascular diseases:
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the key to reduction of cardiovascular disease risk including stroke consists of the following (3): 1) evidence-based dietary changes; 2) cardiopulmonary exercise; 3) achieving healthy bodyweight; 4) favorable lipid panel; 5) maintaining normal blood pressure; 6) avoidance of smoking; and 7) keeping blood glucose levels within normal range. (82)
Diet recommendations by the AHA:
American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Statement, Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations: Revision 2006 by Lichtenstein, AH et al for cardiovascular disease (3):
- Eat a healthful diet the majority of the time including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fat-free or low fat dairy, beans, lean meat, poultry, and oily fish at least twice weekly. Limit total cholesterol to 300 mg per day for healthy adults and for patients with LDL cholesterol under 100 mg/dl. Limit cholesterol to 200 mg per day for patients with coronary artery disease.
- Total fat intake limited to under 25–35 percent of total calories per day.
- Saturated fat intake limited to under 7 percent of total calories per day.
- Trans fat intake should be under 1 percent of total calories per day.
- Other fat in the diet should come from monounsaturated or polyunsaturated oils from unsalted nuts, seeds, oily fish, and vegetable oil such as canola or olive oil.
Maintain a healthy bodyweight:
Maintain a healthy bodyweight with a body mass index (BMI) between 18.5-24.9 kg/m².
