Author
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Lichtenstein, Alice |
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Submitted to: Journal Of The American Dietetic Association
Publication Type: Other Publication Acceptance Date: 10/28/2006 Publication Date: 2/1/2007 Citation: Lichtenstein, A.H. 2007. Diet, Heart Disease, and the Role of the Registered Dietician. Journal Of The American Dietetic Association. 107(2):205-208. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: This commentary summarizes the recent AHA Science Statement, Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations. Improving diet and lifestyle recommendations is a critical component of the AHA’s strategy for cardiovascular disease risk reduction in the general population. Specific goals are to consume an overall healthy diet; aim for a healthy body weight; aim for recommended levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides; aim for normal blood pressure; aim for a normal blood glucose level; be physically active; and avoid use of and exposure to tobacco products. The recommendations are to balance caloric intake and physical activity to achieve and maintain a healthy body weight; consume a diet rich in vegetables and fruits; choose whole-grain, high-fiber foods; consume fish, especially oily fish, at least twice a week; limit intake of saturated fat to <7% of energy, /trans /fat to <1% of energy, and cholesterol to <300 mg/day by choosing lean meats and vegetable alternatives, fat-free (skim) or low-fat (1% fat) dairy products and minimize intake of partially hydrogenated fats; minimize intake of beverages and foods with added sugars; choose and prepare foods with little or no salt; if you consume alcohol, do so in moderation; and when you eat food prepared outside of the home, follow these Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations. By adhering to these diet and lifestyle recommendations, the risk of developing cardiovascular disease can be substantially reduced, which remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. |
