Everything in moderation
A good way to help you manage CVD it is to think "moderation." This means not doing too much or too little of any one thing.
Tips to help you eat a balanced diet:
Try to limit unhealthy fats and cholesterol
The best way to do this is to cut down on the solid fat you eat. Examples are butter, margarine and shortening. A lot of recipes for gravies, cookies and other baked goods include solid fats. Healthy fats are usually liquid at room temperature. Examples are olive oil and canola oil. However, all fat is high in calories.
Be sure to include a moderate amount of protein
Good sources of protein are lean meats, poultry and fish. Low-fat dairy and eggs are also good sources.
Eat a rainbow of fruits and vegetables
That means eating fruits and vegetables of different colors. However, drowning your vegetables in butter, dressing or creamy sauces doesn't count. Also, choose breads and pastas made from whole-wheat flour.
Limit your salt intake
A good way to do this is to keep the saltshaker off the table. Also, don't add extra salt when cooking. Your blood pressure will thank you for it. If you have high blood pressure, your provider may ask you to follow the DASH diet.