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Heart-healthy diet: 8 steps to prevent heart disease
6. Reduce the sodium in your food
Content
1. Control your portion size
2. Eat more vegetables and fruits
3. Select whole grains
4. Limit unhealthy fats
5. Choose low-fat protein sources
6. Reduce the salt (sodium) in your food
7. Plan ahead: Create daily menus
8. Allow yourself an occasional treat
7. Plan ahead: Create daily menus
You know what foods to feature in your heart-healthy diet and which ones to limit. Now it's time to put your plans into action.
Create daily menus using the six strategies listed above. When selecting foods for each meal and snack, emphasize vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Choose lean protein sources and healthy fats, and limit salty foods. Watch your portion sizes and add variety to your menu choices.
For example, if you have grilled salmon one evening, try a black bean burger the next night. This helps ensure that you'll get all of the nutrients your body needs. Variety also makes your meals and snacks more interesting.
