With some types of heart disease, such as coronary heart disease, it may be possible to reverse some of the effects and reduce its severity through medications and lifestyle adjustments. This may include diets, such as the Mediterranean diet or a plant-based diet.
It may
In this article, we look at factors that can increase the risk of heart disease and actions that may help reverse the condition. We also explain different tests used to monitor the progress of heart disease.
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A
- a whole foods and plant-based diet, including:
- grains
- legumes
- vegetables
- fruits
- nuts
- seeds
- exercise
- stress management, such as yoga or meditation
- group support
Modifiable factors that can
- smoking
- stress
- a sedentary lifestyle
- eating a diet high in red meat, fat, and sugar
It is important to remember that some types of heart disease have no cure and are not reversible. However, following a doctor’s recommended treatment plan and making heart-healthy lifestyle changes can help a person manage their condition and help prevent complications.
Choosing and avoiding certain foods
Plant-based diet
Eating foods such as vegetables that have more nutrients and fewer calories may be the best way to help prevent and treat long-term health problems such as heart disease.
According to a
Learn more about a plant-based diet.
Mediterranean diet
Following a Mediterranean diet
The Mediterranean diet is high in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. It is low in red meat.
Learn about the Mediterranean diet and view sample meal plans.
Reducing inflammation
Some
Nutrition may help modify systemic inflammation. Foods that contain synthetic trans fat and dietary saturated fat, such as food shortenings and fried foods, can
Foods that contain omega-3 polyunsaturated fat, such as fish, chia seeds, and flaxseed, may help reduce inflammation.
Read more about the anti-inflammatory diet.
Weight management
Weight management, in general, can play a role in helping prevent the development of heart disease.
Having overweight or obesity can be
Strong evidence suggests exercise plays a big role in improving heart health and general health.
For instance, a study published in the American Heart Association journal
Talk with a doctor about forms of exercise that could be safe and appropriate to try. Examples of potentially beneficial exercises include:
Doctors prescribe different medications for treating and managing different heart diseases. It is important to take medications exactly as a doctor has prescribed.
Some common medications prescribed to treat or manage heart diseases
- angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors such as ramipril (Altace) and lisinopril (Prinivil)
- statins such as pravastatin (Pravachol) and atorvastatin (Lipitor)
- calcium channel blockers such as amlodipine (Norvasc)
- angiotensin II receptor blockers such as valsartan (Diovan) and olmesartan (Benicar)
A person may wish to consider making other lifestyle changes to manage heart disease.
Smoking
Cigarette, tobacco, and alcohol use are
According to the
Get tips for quitting smoking.
Stress
Stress is an
Different life stressors can
Getting enough rest using relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation may help reverse heart disease.
To diagnose and monitor heart disease, healthcare professionals use different tests. These may include:
- an electrocardiogram to record the heart’s electric signals
- blood tests for measuring levels of cholesterol and fat in the blood
- cardiac catheterization to show obstructions in heart arteries
- stress or exercise tests to monitor the heart during physical activity
- imaging tests of the heart, such as MRI or CT scans
- Holter monitoring to assess the activity of the heart during daily routine activities
It is not possible to reverse all types of heart disease. However, there are clinical approaches that focus on managing these conditions.
Lifestyle and dietary modifications may improve overall health outcomes, reduce the risk of developing additional medical conditions, reduce disease symptoms, and help manage cardiovascular conditions.
A person should always talk with a doctor before making major lifestyle changes.