Although great advances have been made in treating coronary artery disease, a healthy diet is still the single most effective way to stop the disease from progressing.

Research has shown that a heart healthy diet can actually help slow the progress of coronary artery disease. Dietary changes should include reducing total fat intake, particularly saturated fat. Saturated fatty acids are the chief culprit in raising blood cholesterol, which then increases your risk of heart disease. Foods that are high in saturated fat are typically high in cholesterol as well, so avoiding them is particularly helpful.

Since saturated fat and cholesterol are found in all foods from animal sources, be careful to eat no more than six ounces of lean meat or skinless poultry per day, and to use fat-free and low-fat dairy products. Fish that contains heart healthy omega-3 fatty acids should be consumed at least twice a week. High-quality protein from vegetable sources such as beans are also good substitutes for animal sources of protein.

Substitute grilled or broiled foods for fried foods whenever possible. If you do decide to fry, avoid oils that are high in saturated fat like coconut and palm oils. Alternatives include oils made from polyunsaturated fats like sunflower, safflower and soybean oils or monounsaturated fats like canola, olive and peanut oils. These, when consumed in moderation, may even have beneficial effects on your blood cholesterol levels.

Whenever possible, be sure to read the label on the foods that you buy. Look for the terms “hydrogenated” or “partially hydrogenated vegetable oils” and try your best to avoid these.