Fluid limitations for heart failure patients

Heart failure patients are allowed only a certain amount of fluids each day. While the amount varies with the individual needs of each patient, the range is usually 2000cc or more per day.

Fluid measurement

measure                        ounces         cc (cubic centimeters)

1 cup                                   8                        240

½ cup                                  4                        120

¼ cup                                  2                        60

2 tablespoons                    1                        30

Examples of fluids

1 popsicle, whole = 80 cc

ice cubes (size may vary – let two cubes melt in a measuring cup to determine fluid content)

ice cream or sherbet, ½ cup = 120 cc

gelatin, ½ cup = 120 cc

soup

coffee, tea, hot chocolate

cream

low-salt vegetable or fruit juices

soda pop

alcohol

water (includes water taken with medications)