2026 Dietary Guidance to Improve Cardiovascular Health: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Adjust energy intake and expenditure to achieve and maintain a healthy body weight

Eat plenty of vegetables and fruits and choose a wide variety

Choose foods made mostly with whole grains rather than refined grains

Choose healthy sources of protein

Choose sources of unsaturated fats in place of sources of saturated fat

Choose minimally processed foods instead of ultraprocessed foods

Minimize intake of added sugars in beverages and foods

Reduce sodium intake by choosing foods low in sodium and preparing foods with minimal or no salt

If alcohol is not consumed, do not start; if alcohol is consumed, limit intake