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Ischemic
heart disease is a developmental disease that is often associated with a
dietary intake that contributes to the atherosclerotic process and the development
of heart disease. Because of the impact of the quantity and quality
of food on heart health, Baptist Hospital employs a full-time dietitian dedicated
specifically to the needs of heart patients. The educational requirement
for this position is a bachelor's degree, a nine-to-twelve month internship,
and credentialing as a licensed dietitian and a registered dietitian.
The cardiac dietitian is available for individual counsel with heart surgery patients, heart attack patients, congestive heart failure patients and other heart patients as determined by their physician or other clinical care giver. Contact is made with the patient within 48 hours of admission or as ordered by the physician or other health care provider. The initial visit is a one-hour instructional session that may be followed by additional sessions if necessary. During the session, the patient is provided with written material addressing lipid management, sodium intake, cholesterol control and dietary guidelines for fat intake and caffeine consumption. |
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While in the hospital, meals served for cardiac patients are low in fat (less than 50 grams per day), low in sodium (no more than four grams per day), low in cholesterol (less than 300 grams per day) and caffeine free.
Additionally, the dietary department plays a vital role in the outpatient education phase of our cardiac rehabilitation program. A one-hour nutrition class is offered on a monthly basis as part of the education cycle for rehab patients. | |
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Heart Healthy Eating
Reducing your risk of heart disease includes lowering your blood cholesterol level. Making smart food choices which include a diet high in fiber and low in saturated fats can help you attain a desired cholesterol level. | |
Click here to view our printable recipe book with over 70 pages of heart healthy eating options. | |
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