Prevention

Prevention of cardiac disease is a primary focus of the San Diego Cardiac Center. Wellness and health promotion services include:

Many of our patients ask, "What can I eat?" Get the latest information on heart-healthy foods through individual visits with our registered dietitian. She will help you set goals for dietary changes to reduce your risks for heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular disease. Our dietician works alongside our cardiologists to evaluate your current eating patterns and discusses ideas that can help you reach your health goals. You may receive tips on grocery shopping, label reading, food preparation, portion control, dining out and snacking. Whether you need specifics for a blood-pressure-lowering diet or just have questions about what to eat to maintain well-being, you'll find the session beneficial.

Some cholesterol is needed for normal body function, but too much of it or other fats (lipids) in your blood can hurt your quality of life, as these can lead to heart disease, strokes and disability, and even death. Our cholesterol management program blends medical treatment and patient counseling so you can take control of reducing your risks. Our program includes periodic laboratory analyses of cholesterol levels, which help you and your cardiologist identify areas of concern and determine treatment methods. Working with our cardiologists, registered dietician and patient educator, you'll be taught effective ways to manage your cholesterol, including good nutrition, physical activity and/or cholesterol/lipid-lowering medication.