Behavioral intervention, nutrition, and exercise trials in heart failure.

With the aging of the population and advances in acute treatment of ischemic events and surgical techniques for coronary artery and valvular heart disease, the prevalence of heart failure has been increasing. Lifestyle modifications are an integral part of preventing and treating most pathologic human conditions, and include behavioral modifications, diet, and exercise. Despite advances in medical and device therapy for heart failure, clinicians still hope that patients will adhere to nonpharmacologic interventions, some of which can actually improve symptoms and quality of life. This article reviews the role of these lifestyle modifications in preventing and treating heart failure. Published by Elsevier Inc.