Dietary education among patients following coronary artery bypass surgery - a necessity or an unnecessary luxury?

Introduction: Despite rapid progress in cardiology and cardiac surgery, cardiovascular disease still present a serious epidemiological problem in industrialized countries, including Poland. Great interest in risk factors of these diseases is associated with an improper lifestyle, including diet. Aim of the study: We aimed to assess the dietary intake among patients with a history of coronary artery bypass (CABG) surgery and to determine whether a regular dietary education among this population of patients is necessary. Material and methods: 212 patients with a history of CABG surgery were enrolled in the study. A questionnaire concerning the diet within 24 hours prior to the visit was used to obtain the necessary data. Results: 43% of patients ate 4 to 5 servings per day. Milk was consumed most often several times per week or once every day. Meat consumption several times per week was reported by 41% of patients. 54% of patients reported eating fish several times per month. Half of the patients ate several servings of vegetables per day. 84% of patients used salt and other spices to season their meals. The energy value and the intake of protein, fats, carbohydrates and fiber was lower, while sodium intake was higher, than recommended for this group of patients. Conclusions: Patients with a history of CABG have an unhealthy diet, and do not follow the dietary guidelines. It is necessary to carry out systematic nutrition education among this group.