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Diet for Seniors with CHF

By Ruby Cemental

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a serious heart condition in which the heart can’t pump effectively. It is characterized by fluid buildup around the heart and throughout the body. This condition doesn’t mean that the heart is going to fail, but it indicates that the heart has been severely damaged and can’t pump like it once could. To help seniors manage this condition, it’s important that they pay attention to the foods they eat. Diet can have a huge impact on heart health and help seniors manage their symptoms. In this post, we will outline foods that seniors with CHF should consume and avoid.  

 

Do Not Consume 

There are many foods that can damage the heart further. Seniors should manage their CHF by being careful to avoid the following food items. 

Foods high in sodium 

 Sodium, or salt, can cause the body to retain more fluid and raise blood pressure, which is dangerous to a senior with CHF since their body already retains fluid. Seniors should avoid foods with high levels of sodium. Foods that are naturally high in sodium include: 

  • Smoked, cured, or canned meat 
  • Frozen dinners 
  • Canned entrees, including soups 
  • Salted nuts or snacks 
  • Instant pudding 
  • Cottage cheese 
  • Vegetable juice 
  • Salad dressing 

Alcohol 

Alcohol can affect the heart by changing heart rate and blood pressure. Long-term use of alcohol can also lead to weakened heart muscles and an irregular heartbeat. You should completely eliminate or limit your alcohol consumption, especially if your heart issues are related to previous alcohol use. 

You may think that red wine is good for the heart. Well, that may be true in some cases and if your heart is healthy. However, seniors with CHF may not enjoy the benefits of a glass of wine, which is why most doctors recommend avoiding alcohol. 

RELATED CONTENT: 5 Devices to Manage CHF

Foods high in cholesterol and saturated fat 

Cholesterol and saturated fat can lead to clogged arteries, which can make the circulatory system even more ineffective. Seniors with CHF should avoid the following foods that are high in cholesterol and/or saturated fat: 

  • Fatty pieces of meat 
  • Fried foods 
  • Butter 
  • Shortening 
  • Margarine sticks 

Processed grains 

Seniors with CHF should also avoid processed grains. These foods don’t offer the body much nutritional value because they have been stripped of their healthy fiber, which can help your body eliminate cholesterol and regulate sugar in the blood. These processed grains include the following: 

  • White bread 
  • White rice 
  • Regular pasta 
  • Boxed cereals 

Too Much Water 

You might think that there isn’t a limit to how much water you should consume in a day. However, too much water can be bad for a senior with CHF. This is largely due to the fact that the body is already retaining fluid. Drinking more water or fluids can cause the body to retain even more fluid, which can put more strain on the already weak heart.  

An individual with CHF needs to monitor their fluid intake. A general guideline is that these seniors should not consume more than 2 liters of fluid per day. However, a doctor may set specific limits based on an individual's health.

Do Consume 

There are many foods that can help the heart and the rest of the body remain healthy and strong. Seniors with CHF should consider the following foods in their diet.  

Fresh fruits and vegetables 

Fruits and vegetables are low in sodium and high in nutrients. Additionally, they are low in fat, calories, and cholesterol. Many fresh fruits or vegetables also have vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, water, and fiber — all of which are great for the body.  

When considering your fruit and vegetable options, remember that fresh fruits are healthier than frozen or canned alternatives. However, any fruit and vegetable options are better than not consuming them at all. If you do opt for frozen or canned vegetables, choose low-sodium products.  

RELATED CONTENT: Superfoods for Seniors

Herbs and spices 

If you like to season your food with salt, then you might be wondering what a good alternative is. Herbs and spices are a great way to add extra flavor without adding salt to your meal. To get the most out of your spices, follow these tips: 

  • Crumble dry leaf herbs or finely chop fresh herbs 
  • Add herbs at the end of cooking dishes that require a long time to cook 
  • Add hers early to dishes that will sit in the refrigerator for a few hours 
  • Substitute dry herbs for fresh herbs as needed (1 teaspoon of dried herbs = 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs) 
  • Avoid spice mixtures that have high salt content or are high in potassium 

Healthy fat 

Your body does need some fat; however, it needs healthy fat. Instead of cooking with butter or shortening, you can rely on olive oil, peanut oil, or canola oil, which are healthier alternatives. Additional sources of healthy fat include: 

  • Avocado 
  • Cheese 
  • Dark chocolate 
  • Nuts 
  • Chia seeds 

Foods high in fiber 

Trade in those processed grains for foods that are high in fiber. You can opt for whole-grain cereals, pastas, breads, and other foods. Additionally, you can turn to the following high-fiber foods: 

  • Beans 
  • Bran 
  • Fresh fruit 
  • Vegetables 
  • Lentils 
  • Quinoa 
  • Oats 
  • Popcorn 

Final Thoughts 

What you put into your body can have a huge effect on how it performs for you. Seniors with existing heart problems, including CHF, should carefully monitor their diet to make sure they consume heart-healthy foods. This may include choosing more fresh fruit and vegetables along with reading nutritional labels on your favorite foods. As you adjust to your diet, your body will get used to the new palette, and your heart will thank you!  

If you or a loved one is suffering from heart disease or CHF, we understand the unique challenges these conditions can cause seniors. That’s why we’ve created specialized care programs that are tailored to keeping seniors healthy and empowering them to continue living independently at home. Learn more about how we can help support seniors with CHF by reaching out to your local Caring team

Personalized care for seniors with CHF

Tags: Senior Health