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Heart failure is a chronic condition that impacts approximately one in five individuals over the age of 40*. Currently, an estimated 5.7 million Americans are living with heart failure, making it a leading cause of hospital visits for those aged 65 and older.
While heart failure is sometimes reversible, it remains a serious condition without a definitive cure. With proper medical care, medication, and lifestyle adjustments, many people can successfully manage their symptoms and maintain a fulfilling life.
This guide aims to help you better understand heart failure and provides practical strategies for managing the condition while supporting your overall well-being —physically, mentally, and emotionally.
*Source: American Heart Association
Fluid Intake and Restrictions
Some patients with heart failure may need to limit their fluid intake.
You should ask your doctor how much fluid you can have. Drinking too much fluid puts more stress on your heart and can cause swelling or edema, weight gain, and shortness of breath.
What counts as fluid intake? Anything liquid at room temperature:
- All drinks or beverages
- Soup and broth
- Jell-O
- Ice cream
- Sherbet and Sorbet
- Popsicles
There are 2 easy tricks to help track your fluid intake:
- Fill a container (pitcher or 2-liter soda bottle) with your fluid limit for the day.
Each time you drink/eat fluid, take the same amount of fluid out of the container. When the container is empty, you will know you have had your fluid limit for the day. - Start with the empty container.
Each time you have fluid, put the same amount into the container. When the container is full or to your limit amount, you know you have reached your fluid limit for the day
Dietary Considerations
Many people with heart failure are told to watch their sodium or eat a low-salt diet. People should follow a heart-healthy diet. Learn to read nutrition labels, noting the sodium content (listed as mg) and the serving size.
Items that are low in sodium include:
- Fresh or frozen fruits, vegetables, beef, poultry, pork and seafood that do not have sauces
- Unsalted snacks, like some pretzels and nuts
- Oats and cereals with less than 140mg sodium per serving
You can still enjoy some foods that have higher levels of sodium, but be careful when eating the following:
- Cured meats (hot dogs, sausage, bacon, ham, beef jerky)
- Canned meats (tuna, salmon, sardines)
- Canned soups (even “reduced” or “low” sodium soups)
- Canned and some frozen vegetables
- Dairy products (some cheeses, yogurt)
- Frozen entrees (those with more than 600mg per serving)
- Frozen foods that are precooked, seasoned, covered in gravy or sauce, or injected with a saline or salt solution (often poultry)
- Pickled food (pickles, banana peppers, okra, pigs feet)
- Condiments (ketchup, bbq sauce, mayonnaise, dressings, marinades)
Some grocery shopping considerations include:
- Using fresh or frozen foods if possible
- Shop the perimeter of the store where most of the fresh and frozen foods are found
- Make a grocery list and stick to it
- Don’t be tempted by “browsing”. Look for recipes that are low sodium, such as the American Heart Association Low-Salt Cookbook.
Remove the Temptation:
Other seasonings and spices will add flavor without adding sodium.
- Mrs. Dash
- Onion Powder
- Garlic Powder
- Chili Powder
- Black Pepper
- Thyme
- Basil
- Oregano
- Cumin
- Curry
Dining Out:
Here are some helpful tips for you to follow while dining out:
- Stay Away from: Soups, Broths, and Buffets. These items can be extremely high in sodium.
- Choose Wisely: Eat salads but avoid pickles, cured meats, cheeses, and salted nuts. Order salad dressing on the side or use a sodium-free oil and vinegar
- Order with Confidence: Order main course options that are grilled, baked, broiled, or roasted; items that are prepared without butter, salt, MSG, or dressings.
- Mindful Tips:
- Order condiments, sauces, and dressings on the side, and use sparingly.
- Ask your server for nutrition information and check the menu before dining out.
Exercise:
Exercise is an important part of your treatment for heart failure.
Follow the prescribed exercise program by your doctor or physical therapist. Gradually work up to about 30-45 minutes of total exercise, balanced with periods of rest at least 5 days per week.
Remember, exercise can cause shortness of breath, sweating, and rapid heart rate. These are the NORMAL effects of exercise. If you become short of breath when exercising, stop and take a break. You can resume once your breathing has returned to normal.