Why Nutrition Matters in Heart Failure

In heart failure, the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently. This can lead to fluid buildup, fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling. Certain foods can worsen fluid retention and blood pressure, while others support heart muscle function and overall energy.

Simply put: good nutrition helps your heart work smarter, not harder.

Key Nutrition Goals for Heart Failure

1. Cut Down on Salt (Sodium) 🧂

Too much salt causes the body to hold onto fluid, increasing swelling and breathlessness.

Tips:

Limit salt to about 2,000 mg per day (or as advised by your doctor)

Avoid processed foods like instant noodles, canned meats, sausages, salted fish, and stock cubes

Flavor meals with garlic, onions, ginger, prekese, cloves, herbs, and spices instead of salt

👉 In Ghanaian meals, reduce added salt in soups and stews and go easy on seasoning cubes.

2. Watch Your Fluids 💧

In some people with heart failure, too much fluid can overload the heart.

What this means:

Your doctor may recommend a fluid limit (often 1.5–2 liters/day)

Fluids include water, tea, soup, porridge, and even ice

A simple trick: use a measured bottle so you know how much you’re drinking daily.

3. Choose Heart-Healthy Fats 🥑

Not all fats are bad. The right fats protect blood vessels and reduce inflammation.

Choose more of:

Avocado

Groundnuts and groundnut paste (in moderation)

Palm oil in small amounts

Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel

Limit:

Fried foods

Fatty red meat

Pastries and fast foods

4. Eat Enough Protein 💪

People with heart failure can lose muscle easily, especially if appetite is poor.

Good protein choices:

Fish

Beans, cowpeas, and lentils

Eggs (in moderation)

Skinless chicken

Low-fat dairy (if tolerated)

Protein helps maintain strength and supports recovery.

5. Load Up on Fruits and Vegetables 🍍🥬

Fruits and vegetables provide potassium, magnesium, fiber, and antioxidants that support heart health.

Local options include:

Garden eggs

Kontomire

Okro

Pawpaw, oranges, bananas, watermelon

⚠️ Note: If you’re on certain medications (like diuretics), potassium intake may need monitoring—always follow your healthcare provider’s advice.

6. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Sudden weight gain can signal fluid retention, not fat gain.

Daily weighing is important:

Weigh yourself at the same time each morning

Report a gain of 2–3 kg in a few days to your healthcare provider

Nutrition isn’t about extreme dieting—it’s about balance.

Alcohol & Sugary Drinks: Handle With Care 🍺🥤

Alcohol can weaken the heart muscle—many patients are advised to avoid it completely

Sugary drinks add calories without nutrition and worsen weight gain

Choose water, unsweetened tea, or natural fruit infusions instead.

Practical Meal Ideas (Simple & Local)

Boiled yam with kontomire stew (low salt)

Brown rice with grilled fish and vegetables

Beans and ripe plantain (moderate oil, less salt)

Oats with fruit and a sprinkle of groundnuts

Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Impact ❤️

Heart failure doesn’t mean giving up food you enjoy—it means eating smarter. Small, consistent changes can:

Reduce swelling and breathlessness

Improve energy levels

Lower hospital visits

Support a longer, better quality life

Always work with your doctor or dietitian to tailor nutrition advice to your condition. Remember, your plate is part of your prescription.