Rush News Blog

News, Views & Health Tips from Rush University Medical Center

Prevent a Second Heart Attack

February 10, 2011 by Kim Waterman

Olive oil, oatmeal, leafy greens, even red wine and dark chocolate are some of the key foods to eat to prevent a second heart attack according to diet and nutrition expert Janet Bond Brill, Ph.D., R.D., in her new book Prevent A Second Heart Attack. Rush’s very own, Dr. Annabelle Volgman, director of the Rush Heart Center for Women, wrote the foreword for the book.

According to Brill, there are eight “superfood” groups that should be incorporated into a daily diet to improve heart health and reduce the risk of a second heart attack. These key groups are: healthy fats, vegetables, fruit, legumes, seafood, walnuts and flaxseeds, whole grains, and moderate amounts of red wine. She even throws in the bonus ”superfood” dark chocolate as a treat that you can eat everyday.

Of course, eating isn’t the only key. Brill and Dr. Volgman also stress the importance of moderate exercise, stress reduction, maintaining a healthy weight, no smoking and taking medications. Studies have shown that making healthy lifestyle changes can prevent 80 percent of heart attacks in men and women.

Brill will be joining Dr. Volgman at the Rush wellness seminar, Take Charge of Your Heart, taking place from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Saturday, February 19. The event is a comprehensive program about caring for your heart and includes information about risk factors for heart disease – such as diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol – and the treatment options for various conditions, including arrhythmias, heart failure and vascular disease. Register by visiting www.rush.edu or call (888) 352-RUSH (7874).