Dietary Recommendations for Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction

Understanding Dietary Needs Based on Heart Conditions

Proper nutrition plays a vital role in the recovery and long-term health of patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Depending on the specific symptoms and underlying conditions, dietary adjustments can significantly support heart function and overall well-being. Below are tailored dietary suggestions based on different syndromes associated with heart health.

Heart-Cold Syndrome (Cold Aggravates Chest Pain)

Individuals experiencing chest pain triggered by cold exposure, along with symptoms such as pale complexion, cold extremities, and bluish lips or nails, may benefit from a diet that promotes warmth and circulation. This includes avoiding cold foods like raw fruits and vegetables. Instead, incorporating warming ingredients such as garlic, fresh onions, dried ginger, Sichuan pepper, or even a small amount of rice wine can help support circulation and reduce discomfort. Keeping the body warm and resting completely during episodes is essential. Applying heat to the chest area may also provide relief.

Blood Stagnation in the Heart Vessels

For patients with persistent chest pain, dull skin complexion, and purple lips or nails, a diet that promotes blood circulation is highly recommended. Tongue discoloration or the presence of dark spots may indicate blood stasis. In such cases, consuming foods like peach kernel porridge can help improve blood flow. Drinking herbal tea made from ingredients like hawthorn may also aid in reducing blood stagnation and support cardiovascular health.

Qi Deficiency with Blood Stasis

Those who experience worsening chest pain after exertion, along with shortness of breath and fatigue, may be dealing with a combination of qi deficiency and blood stasis. In such cases, incorporating foods like lotus seeds and hawthorn porridge can help replenish energy while promoting healthy blood flow. Herbal teas made with American ginseng and hawthorn may also be beneficial. Ensuring regular bowel movements is important, and acupressure on specific points such as Zusanli (ST36), Sanyinjiao (SP6), Zhigou (TE6), Hegu (LI4), and Tianshu (ST25) can aid digestion and circulation.

Abdominal Massage for Digestive Health

Daily abdominal massage can help maintain digestive health, which in turn supports heart function. To perform this, warm both hands by rubbing them together and place them on the abdomen, centered around the navel. Gently massage in a circular motion, moving from the ascending colon to the transverse colon, and then down to the descending and sigmoid colon. This practice can be done both in the morning and evening for best results.

Deficiency of Both Qi and Yin with Phlegm-Blood Stasis

Patients experiencing fixed chest pain, especially after exertion, along with symptoms like heaviness in the head, abdominal distension, dry mouth, and fatigue, may be suffering from a combination of qi and yin deficiency along with phlegm and blood stasis. For these individuals, a diet that nourishes yin and strengthens qi is recommended. Eating porridge made with coix seed and tangerine peel can help strengthen the spleen and reduce phlegm buildup. It is important to avoid rich, greasy foods and cold raw fruits or vegetables. Keeping warm and maintaining a stable body temperature is also crucial for managing symptoms.