How to Eat Foods That Heal Angina

Angina, a chest pain that is a symptom of heart disease, occurs when the blood flow to your heart diminishes. There are steps you can take to ease the pain and blunt the attacks. Changing your diet to ensure that you eat right is one of them.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Add vegetables and whole-grain foods. Some options include oatmeal, peaches, bananas, toast crackers, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, blueberries and brown rice. Look for labels that say "whole grain" as opposed to just "wheat" on breads and pastas. The fiber in whole grain foods can ease the symptoms of heart disease.

2. Limit foods that are high in fat, such as red meat, cheese and many desserts. Standard treatment for angina can include cutting the calories from fat in your diet to around 10 percent. If you do eat red meat, trim all the excess fat.

3. Consider supplements. Your doctor can recommend the correct amounts and particular brands. Vitamin E, selenium and magnesium have been beneficial in the treatment of angina and other problems related to heart disease. You also can buy a fiber supplement.

Tips & Warnings

• If you think you have angina, consult your doctor right away. Patients should not attempt to self-diagnose or self-treat this medical condition, as it can lead to more serious conditions.

• Exercise can also help ease angina. However, it is important to consult a doctor before beginning any exercise regimen.