For those at risk for heart failure (stage A), plant-based diets such as the Mediterranean diet and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet — which emphasize the intake of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes — can help prevent the development of heart failure. Also, following a diet with reduced salt (sodium) intake can help to prevent the development of heart failure in those at risk, and may reduce mortality in people with stages B–D heart failure.[1][2]
What's the connection between diet and heart failure?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Plant-based diets like the Mediterranean and DASH diets can help prevent heart failure in at-risk individuals, and reducing salt intake may prevent heart failure development and lower mortality in more advanced stages of the condition.