What may I need to avoid or limit if I have congestive heart failure?

Well, rule number one-- if you can handle it--go through your fridge and cabinets and get rid of all processed foods. When you go grocery shopping shop on the outside of the aisles where the produce and fresh meat sections are. Avoid processed drinks, jarred foods (pickles and such), canned foods, cereals, boxed meals, or the frozen food section unless purchasing bulk vegetables. Focus on seasoning foods naturally with items like onions or garlic or bell peppers or Mrs. DASH. Ask your physician what his recommended fluid limit would be and stick to that! When you grill meats avoid salt and create marinades that are low in sodium. Also, stay away from the lunch meat aisle! Items like bologna, sausage, and other similar items have a high level of sodium and nitrates which are not good for you.

A word on going out to eat: One plate of food in a restaurant can have up to 3 days’ worth of sodium. Try to avoid eating out if you can, but if you do--ask for a nutritional guide to look for low sodium choices and ask that any sauces be placed on the side so you can moderate the amount. Be cautious with alcohol intake if you have a diagnosis of heart failure too. Heart Failure and Alcohol don’t like one another--and that’s a bad thing for you! Small amount is key and it shouldn’t be a regular habit.