The effect of diet, lifestyle and psychological factors in the prognosis of ischemic heart failure

Abstract

Background/Objective: Dietary patterns may play an important role in the prognosis of heart failure. Methods: Dietary habits, sleeping habits, physical activity and anxiety and depression status were recorded in 326 patients (90 females, mean age 73.45 ± 10.9 years) with ischemic heart failure prospectively followed for 30 months. Results: Lower ΗADS-depression scores (p = 0.03), a low-fat meat diet (p = 0.035) and moderate coffee consumption (p = 0.005) were associated with better prognosis. Non-significant differences were recorded in outcomes with regard to consumption of other dietary categories. Conclusions: A balanced diet as well as emphasis on the treatment of depression may improve outcomes in ischemic heart failure. Keywords: Heart failure, Mediterranean diet, Diet in heart failure, Depression in heart failure, Coffee consumption