What it is
Coronary disease is characterised by narrowing of the coronary arteries due to atheromatous plaques.
It involves disruption of blood flow in the coronary artery, which can cause angina, myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death.
Symptoms
- Chest pain or pressure
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
Nutritional management
- Reduced consumption of foods rich in saturated fats and trans fatty acids
- Increased consumption of fruit, vegetables and wholegrain products
- Consumption of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Body weight control
- Increased moderate- to high-intensity physical activity to over 60 minutes per day
- Limiting sedentary activities to fewer than 2 hours per day
- Reduced alcohol consumption
- Smoking cessation
When to consult a dietitian-nutritionist
- After a diagnosis of coronary disease
- After a cardiovascular event (e.g. myocardial infarction, angioplasty)
- When there is high cardiovascular risk due to a combination of multiple risk factors (hypertension, dyslipidaemia, diabetes, obesity)
- When a personalised nutrition plan is needed to limit saturated and trans fats, sodium and processed foods
- When education is needed on choosing foods that improve the lipid profile and blood pressure