Getting your heart health on track doesn’t have to be complicated. If you are looking for the best heart specialist in Lucknow, you will likely hear the name Dr. (Col) Ajay Bahadur. With decades of experience, he emphasizes that a healthy heart begins with what you eat.
This guide breaks down the essential Cardiac Health Diet tips to help you protect your heart and live a more energetic life.
Why Your Diet Matters for Your Heart
Your heart is an engine, and the food you eat is its fuel. A poor diet can lead to high blood pressure, clogged arteries, and high cholesterol. By following a Cardiac Health Diet, you can:
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Lower your risk of heart attacks.
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Keep your blood pressure under control.
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Maintain a healthy weight.
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Feel more active and less tired.
5 Simple Rules for a Cardiac Health Diet
1. Choose “Good” Fats Over “Bad” Fats
Not all fats are enemies. Your heart needs healthy fats to function.
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What to Eat: Use oils like olive oil, mustard oil, or rice bran oil in moderation. Include nuts (almonds, walnuts) and seeds.
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What to Avoid: Stay away from “Trans Fats” found in bakery items (biscuits, cakes), vanaspati ghee, and deep-fried street food.
2. Cut Down on Salt (Sodium)
High salt intake is the leading cause of high blood pressure.
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Dr. Bahadur’s Tip: Don’t keep a salt shaker on the dining table. Avoid pickles, papads, and canned soups which are hidden salt mines.
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The Goal: Try to keep your daily salt intake to less than one teaspoon.
3. Focus on High-Fiber Foods
Fiber acts like a broom, sweeping “bad” cholesterol out of your body.
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What to Eat: Switch white rice for brown rice or daliya (broken wheat). Eat plenty of green leafy vegetables and whole fruits instead of fruit juices.
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Why? Whole fruits contain fiber that juices lack, which helps regulate blood sugar.
4. Limit Added Sugars
Excess sugar turns into fat, which can strain your heart.
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Be careful with sweetened tea, sodas, and “energy” drinks. Even “diet” snacks can sometimes have high sugar content.
5. Portion Control
Even healthy food can be detrimental if consumed in excess. Use a smaller plate to help control how much you eat. Dr. (Col) Ajay Bahadur often suggests filling half your plate with vegetables, one-fourth with protein (dal or lean meat), and one-fourth with whole grains.
Expert Advice from the Best Heart Specialist in Lucknow
Dr. (Col) Ajay Bahadur, a renowned cardiologist, suggests that “Consistency is more important than perfection.” You don’t need to change everything overnight. Start by swapping one unhealthy snack for a fruit today.
If you are experiencing chest pain, breathlessness, or have a family history of heart disease, it is vital to consult a professional. As the best heart Doctor in Lucknow, Dr. Bahadur provides personalized diet plans tailored to your specific heart condition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it okay to eat eggs in a cardiac health diet?
Yes, you can eat eggs in moderation. However, if you have high cholesterol, it is better to eat the egg whites and limit the yolks to 2-3 times a week.
2. Which cooking oil is best for heart patients?
There is no single “miracle” oil. Dr. Bahadur recommends rotating your oils or using a blend of mustard oil, olive oil, or sunflower oil. Avoid reusing oil that has already been used for deep frying.
3. Can I drink tea or coffee if I have a heart condition?
Moderate amounts of tea or coffee (1-2 cups a day) are generally safe. However, avoid adding too much sugar or full-cream milk.
4. Are “sugar-free” biscuits safe for heart patients?
Not necessarily. While they may have less sugar, they often contain high amounts of “Maida” (refined flour) and saturated fats, which are not good for your heart.
5. How much water should I drink daily for heart health?
Unless your doctor has put you on a “fluid restriction” due to heart failure, drinking 8-10 glasses of water is essential to maintain good circulation.
Take Charge of Your Heart Health Today!
Don’t wait for a warning sign to start caring for your heart. Whether you need a routine check-up or a specialized diet plan for a heart condition, consult the best heart specialist in Lucknow.
Book your consultation with Dr. (Col) Ajay Bahadur.📞 Call 084290 29811 or 🌐 Visit [https://drajaybahadur.com/] to schedule an appointment. Your heart deserves the best care!