Introduction. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in Poland. A rational, varied and balanced diet in terms of energy as well as an active lifestyle are the basic conditions that reduce the likelihood and the development of cardiovascular diseases. Aim. The aim of the study was to assess dietary habits and diet of patients with cardiovascular diseases. The study included three diseases: hypertension, ischemic heart disease and lipid disorders. Materials and methods. The study involved 193 people, 104 women and 89 men, out of who 65 suffered from ischemic heart disease, 72 from hypertension, and 56 from lipid disorders. The assessment of dietary habits was based on the author’s own survey, taking into account the habits, preferences and dietary habits of people, as well as personal data and the current clinical status. Anthropometric measurements were made for the nutritional status of the respondents. Conclusions. The method of nutrition and dietary habits of the study group did not meet the dietary recommendations for existing medical conditions. The vast majority of respondents were significantly overweight or obese. The main mistake when it comes to habits was adding salt to food, snacking between meals and frying foods. The work shows the need for education, awareness of nutrition in order to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease.

Key words: cardiovascular, diet, eating habits.