Research points to a low-sodium, plant-forward pattern built on the Mediterranean and DASH diets: olive oil, nuts, fish, vegetables, fruit and fiber-rich foods — while limiting processed high-salt foods, saturated fat, added sugar and refined carbohydrates. Because the evidence is still emerging and sodium targets vary by person, work with the treating cardiologist and a dietitian on exact limits.
A 2024 review in Nutrients examined dietary strategies for heart failure — caloric patterns, the Mediterranean diet, the DASH diet and others. The authors note the evidence is still emerging and results vary across heart-failure subtypes, but the consistent themes are: limit sodium, favor plant foods, choose healthy fats, and increase fiber. Individualized nutrition planning is emphasized — the right pattern depends on the person's subtype, medications and other conditions.
Mediterranean-style fats — a foundation of the heart-failure dietary pattern reviewed.
Fatty fish fits the Mediterranean pattern; prepare with little or no added salt.
The DASH-style core — naturally low in sodium, high in potassium (kidney function permitting) and fiber.
DASH-style choices like low-fat milk and yogurt, in modest amounts.
Whole grains, beans and oats — the review highlights increased fiber as a consistent goal.
Cured meats, canned soups, salty snacks and fast food — sodium control is the single most consistent dietary theme.
The Western pattern's high saturated fat and sugar is flagged as something to move away from.
Excess refined carbs are limited in the Mediterranean/DASH patterns.
Many heart-failure care teams set an individual sodium goal (often in the 1.5–2 g/day range, but this varies). Do not guess the target — ask the treating cardiologist or pharmacist, because the right limit depends on the person's fluid status, medications and stage. The plate patterns above are a safe starting direction; the exact numbers come from the care team.