Unfortunately, most restaurants that do offer "Heart Smart" menu offerings do not take into account the sodium levels, or the levels of sodium sulfate, nitrates or other sulfites in their food ingredients.

All of these factors, in addition to trans fat, Sat fats and cholesterol levels are important things to monitor for those who've had heart surgery or heart problems. The sad fact of the matter is that most people's diet consists of much more than 5000 milligrams/daily of sodium, though the recommended maximum is no more than 2000 milligrams/daily.

Restaurants need to take these things into consideration when planning or updating their menus.