How Diet Affects Coronary Heart Disease

Introduction

According to the Centers for Disease Control, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. According to the American Heart Association, the number one type of heart disease affecting Americans today is coronary heart disease. Coronary heart disease can be prevented by recognizing certain risk factors that contribute to the formation of the disease. One of the fastest ways to avoid these risk factors is through a change of diet.

Cholesterol

According to the American Heart Association, one of the leading risk factors for coronary heart disease is having a high cholesterol level. By aiming for a diet low in cholesterol, you can quickly reduce your chances of developing heart disease, including coronary heart disease. A healthy total blood cholesterol level should be 200 mg/dL or less.

Blood Pressure

Blood pressure is another risk factor for coronary heart disease that diet can help manage. Eating foods high in fat and sugar can quickly raise your blood pressure to unhealthy levels. Focusing on foods such as lean meats, fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help you lower your blood pressure reading to a healthy level. According to the National Institute of Health, you can also lower your blood pressure by increasing the amount of potassium you consume in your diet.

Weight

Your diet can also affect coronary heart disease by how it affects your weight. Obesity is a serious risk factor for developing heart disease. Keeping your diet to the minimal caloric needs that your body has to have to operate will help keep your weight at a healthy level. According to the American Heart Association, losing as little as 10 pounds can dramatically decrease your chances of developing heart disease.

Blood Sugar

Your diet also affects your chances of developing coronary heart disease by controlling your blood sugar levels. Eating an unhealthy diet can pack on extra layers of fatty tissue. According to the Mayo Clinic, having high levels of fatty tissue can increase the body's resistance to insulin. This insulin resistance can lead to diabetes. According to the American Heart Association, an estimated three-quarters of those who die with diabetes will die from some form of coronary issue such as heart disease.