Heart disease is the leading cause of death in men and women in the United States — but steps can be taken to reverse this dangerous trend, starting with eating the South Beach Diet way, exercising, and partnering with your doctor for early detection.

"The good news is that due to recent advances in understanding, detecting, and treating heart disease, I believe we have reached a point where the great majority of heart attacks and strokes can be prevented," explains Dr. Arthur Agatston, leading preventive cardiologist and author of The South Beach Diet Supercharged. "My aggressive approach to heart attack prevention involves a synthesis of what I've learned and researched over the 30 years that I've been practicing prevention-oriented cardiology. It's a four-step plan that I employ every day in my practice,” says Dr. Agatston. "My first recommendation for preventing heart disease is to practice heart-healthy eating. That's why the first step of The South Beach Heart Health Revolution is based on the healthy eating principles of the South Beach Diet. By eating the nutrient- and fiber-rich foods that are emphasized on the plan, you, too, can reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke."

Here are Dr. Agatston’s guidelines for heart-healthy eating:

• Eat good fats. Choose good fats from extra-virgin olive oil, canola oil, peanut oil, flaxseed oil, walnut oil, avocados, nuts, and fish. Omega-3 (fish oil) supplements are also fine.
• Eat good carbs. Good carbs include high-fiber, nutrient-dense fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.
• Eat lean protein. The best sources include eggs, low-fat dairy foods, nuts, seeds, legumes, skinless white-meat poultry, fish, shellfish, lean cuts of meat, and vegetarian options such as tofu.

Armed with these guidelines, you can put together delicious, satisfying, and healthy meals and snacks — and take the first step toward a healthier life.

For more information on the other three lifesaving steps, order your copy of The South Beach Heart Health Revolution today, or visit us at southbeachdiet.com/heart.

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