Each year in the United States, one out of every four deaths is a result of heart disease. As a widespread issue, heart doctors encourage patients to combat high cholesterol and high blood pressure with healthy lifestyle choices such as a nutritious diet and a commitment to exercise. Since it can be challenging to stick to a diet plan when dining out, here are a few recommendations to ensure you don’t sacrifice your heart health when ordering at a restaurant.

4 Dining Tips to Maintain Excellent Heart Health

1. Research Menus in Advance

When sitting down for a meal with friends or family, it’s easy to get distracted by conversation or what your party plans to order. To avoid a last-minute ordering decision that overlooks heart health, do some research in advance and review the menu online. Read through the offerings and zero in on a few healthy options. If you’re unable to find something on your diet plan, check out the sides menu and see if you can concoct your own meal of side salads, vegetables, and proteins. 

2. Request Dressings & Toppings on the Side

There can be plenty of hidden fats and oils in toppings. To stay in control, request sauces, butter, dressings, and toppings like cheese or sour cream on the side. This way, you can dictate the quantities and avoid hidden unhealthy fats. 

3. Lean Toward Colorful Dishes

While an order of fried chicken and french fries might sound tasty in the moment, breaded and deep-fried dishes that are cooked in oil lead to high cholesterol and, in turn, cardiac issues. Instead, focus on ordering a dish that’s colorful and packed with fresh vegetables, fruits, and grilled proteins. 

4. Steer Clear of Buffets

Buffets can be problematic when you’re focused on heart-healthy eating. They tend to feature a variety of hard-to-resist dishes, and it’s natural to want to get your money’s worth by overeating. To avoid the temptation of dessert bars, dishes cooked in butter and oil, or empty calories, lean toward sit-down restaurants that are known for delicious, but healthy cooking. 

If you’re looking for a patient-focused, compassionate heart doctor in Bergen County, NJ, that can help you prioritize heart health and fight high cholesterol, DiVagno Interventional Cardiology, MD, PA is the ideal practice for you. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Leonard DiVagno and his team of board-certified cardiovascular physicians specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of heart disease. Call today at (201) 845-3535 to schedule an appointment and visit their website for more information on their innovative and modern approach to cardiac care.