Recently I had an Angioplasty and Stenting Procedure done due to a 100% block on the Left Main Artery and advised me to be very careful about my food intake after discharge. I am 62 and having Hypertension, Diabetes and Hypothyroid for over ten years and due to that I was on a very healthy diet already. This Angioplasty/Stenting procedure has brought more restrictions that virtually I am left with only few things that I can eat.
Food Restrictions
I was advised by the doctor to stop consumption of Alcohol and Smoking which I have not done at all in my life. He told me to avoid Red Meat but I am a strict Vegetarian who does not even eat Eggs and Fish. Tea is suggested in place of Coffee but I used to take Coffee and Tea only once (each) in a day, which is not an issue to me. Sugar consumption was already controlled due to Diabetes but now it seems I cannot even touch my favourite Sweets/Payasams. I used to drink lot of Water but I am asked to limit the water consumption to maximum one and a half liters a day (in all forms).
Root Vegetables like Potato, Tapioca, Carrot, Beetroot etc., Peanuts, Bananas (of any type), Raisins, Mangoes etc. have to be avoided. White Rice and Rice based snacks and food items must be avoided. Fried items are to be kept away from me (I am very fond of Potato/Tapioca/Banana Chips and Savouries like Indian Mixtures). Biscuits containing Sugar or Salt must be avoided. Juices are to be only selective and of low quantity. The list goes on and on…
But what can I eat then?
A good question indeed. Doctors and Dietitians say that after Angioplasty/Stenting, one should focus on eating a healthy Balanced Diet. This will help our body to heal, reduce risk of complications and enable us to recover well after the procedure. A healthy, Balanced Diet will also reduce the risk of Plaque building up in the Arteries once again. A healthy, Balanced Diet, rich in Fruits (selective), Vegetables (especially Green and Leafy), Wholegrains, Millets can reduce the risk of Heart Diseases.
Recommendations are to Avoid Sugary Foods, Reduce Salt Intake, Low Fat Dairy products, Wholegrains, Fish, Healthy Fats, Fish, Eggs etc. Healthy diet provides our body with plenty of heart-protective nutrients like Vitamins, Minerals, Antioxidants and Dietary Fibres.
Other important factors
Controlling the food intake is primary but likewise, regular Exercise (walking) and Stress Control are also very much important in maintaining a good health after the Angioplasty/Stenting. The doctor told me to walk for minimum 30 minutes a day, regularly and avoid lifting or moving any heavy items. Meditation is very good to keep away from the Mental Stress which is one big contributor to the Plaque in the Arteries. In my case, I was not having regular exercise but had extreme stress factors in life for few years which I believe is the main reason for the block in the Artery.
Disclaimer: The information provided above are based upon the situations I had and recommendations by the Doctor and Dietitian. It can vary from person to person depending upon the seriousness of the conditions and other factors. Hence always consult with your doctor before changing your diet plan or starting any physical exercise.
