What Foods Reduce Angina?

Eating a heart-healthy diet can significantly help manage and reduce the frequency of angina symptoms. The key is to focus on foods that promote overall cardiovascular health.

Key Dietary Components to Reduce Angina

A balanced diet rich in specific food groups and low in others can help minimize angina. Here's a breakdown:

• Fruits, Vegetables, and Whole Grains: These are cornerstones of a heart-healthy diet.
  • Examples:
    • Fruits: Berries, apples, oranges, bananas
    • Vegetables: Leafy greens, carrots, broccoli, bell peppers
    • Whole Grains: Brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat bread, oatmeal
    • Why they help: They provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that support heart health.
• Lean Proteins: Opt for sources low in saturated fat.
  • Examples:
    • Skinless chicken
    • Fish (especially fatty fish like salmon, rich in omega-3s)
    • Beans and legumes
    • Why they help: They support muscle health and are a healthier alternative to red meats.
• Non-Fat or Low-Fat Dairy Products: Choose these options over full-fat dairy.
  • Examples:
    • Skim milk
    • Low-fat yogurt
    • Why they help: They provide calcium without the extra saturated fat.
• Limit Sodium Intake: High sodium intake can worsen angina.
  • How to do it:
    • Read food labels carefully
    • Avoid processed foods
    • Use herbs and spices to flavor food instead of salt

Foods to Avoid or Limit

• High Sodium Foods: Processed foods, fast foods, salty snacks.
• Foods High in Saturated and Trans Fats: Red meat, fried foods, baked goods made with butter/lard.
• Excessive Alcohol: Consult your doctor about safe limits.

Practical Dietary Tips for Angina Management

Food Group	Recommendation	Examples
Fruits & Vegetables	Eat plenty daily; variety is key	Apples, bananas, spinach, carrots
Whole Grains	Choose whole grains over refined	Oats, brown rice, quinoa
Lean Proteins	Opt for lean options	Skinless chicken, fish, beans
Dairy Products	Choose low-fat or non-fat options	Skim milk, low-fat yogurt
Sodium	Limit intake; read labels	Avoid processed foods
Saturated/Trans Fats	Minimize consumption; avoid fried and processed foods	Limit red meat and butter

Conclusion

Consuming a balanced diet, as outlined by nutritional recommendations, can be a crucial component in managing and reducing the symptoms of angina by promoting heart health and reducing strain on the cardiovascular system. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, choosing lean proteins like skinless chicken, fish, and beans, and opting for non-fat or low-fat dairy, while avoiding high sodium foods are important for angina management.