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Nutritional Interventions in Cardiac Rehabilitation: Current Evidence, Evidence Gaps, and Future Directions-A Scoping
Aya Elalfy1, Mahmoud Abdelnabi2, Ahmed Elmorsy Mohamed3
1Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA.
European Journal of Preventive Cardiology
|July 21, 2026
Summary
Nutritional interventions in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) show promise for improving weight and adherence to heart-healthy diets, especially with personalized support. Further research is needed to standardize approaches and confirm long-term benefits.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology and Nutritional Science
- Public Health and Preventive Medicine
Background:
- Nutritional counseling is integral to cardiac rehabilitation (CR).
- Existing evidence on specific dietary interventions within CR is fragmented.
- Gaps in evidence and practice for nutritional strategies in CR need identification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To map the range of nutritional interventions used in adult CR programs.
- To characterize the reported outcomes of these interventions.
- To identify gaps in current evidence and practice.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library) up to June 2026.
- Included randomized controlled trials, non-randomized trials, and observational studies.
- Focused on structured CR programs for adults with cardiovascular disease.
Main Results:
- 35 studies evaluated diverse interventions: dietary patterns, weight loss, lifestyle changes, education, supplementation, and personalized diets.
- Commonly reported benefits included improved body weight, reduced adiposity, and better adherence to cardioprotective diets.
- Effects on lipids, blood pressure, and clinical outcomes were variable; benefits were enhanced with repeated contact and individualized support.
Conclusions:
- Nutritional interventions in CR are linked to improved intermediate outcomes, particularly when structured and reinforced.
- Heterogeneity in study design and reporting limits definitive conclusions on comparative efficacy.
- Standardization, longer follow-up, and personalized nutrition strategies are crucial for advancing CR.
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