Heart & Vascular Services

Nutrition Guidelines for Heart Failure Patients

If you have been diagnosed with heart failure, eating a low-sodium diet may benefit your overall well-being.

Experts at the Presbyterian Heart Failure Program can help you develop a plan to effectively manage your condition. Maintaining a low-sodium diet is one of the most important things you can do to feel better. Here are some key strategies to help you get started:

  • Watch your fluid intake carefully.
  • Limit the amount of sodium in your diet.
  • Learn to read food labels.
  • Keep your diet varied to ensure that you are getting all of the essential nutrients your body needs.
  • Eat high-fiber foods, such as whole grains and fresh fruit.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.

Watching your diet has to be part of living with heart disease, but this doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or fun. Our dietitians have developed easy-to-use guides to help you enjoy delicious foods without putting yourself at risk.

Fluid Facts

Heart failure is a condition that requires fluid restriction. If you have excess fluid in your blood vessels, your heart must work harder to pump the excess fluid through your body. Learn More

Menu and Snack Ideas

Our staff has created meal plans and snack ideas that include common favorite foods but still fall within the sodium limit for heart failure patients. Learn More

Stamp Out Sodium

Learn how to be on the lookout for low-sodium, great-tasting foods as you’re walking the aisles at the grocery store. Learn More

Add Flavor with Herbs and Spices

Learn how to add flavor to your healthy meals and still stay within your sodium limits. Learn More