6 Foods to Avoid for a Healthy Heart

Snacks and processed foods can cause health problems, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, which are precursors to heart disease.

Processed foods help bridge the gap between comfort eating and time cravings by offering a mild flavor. Found on every supermarket shelf, this enticing combination means that Western diets often leave little room for healthy food.

However, two doctors warned that this lifestyle exacerbates heart disease. Thankfully, experts have shared information on which foods to “avoid or limit.”

Speaking to TODAY, Dr. Sharon Hayes, a cardiologist at the Women’s Heart Clinic in Minnesota, USA, said: “No amount of food will save your life. And nothing will kill you, it’s all about balance. what you eat will be.” And how much you eat is critical.”

Sharon and fellow cardiologist Dr. Andrew Freeman, who works at National Jewish Health in Colorado, USA, shared some of the key foods they try to avoid or limit for optimal health.

processed meat

In addition to being delicious, processed meats are rich in calories, saturated fats, salt, and additives such as nitrates.

Unfortunately, all these ingredients, according to cardiologists, are the cause of heart problems.

Even worse, Dr. Andrew warns that processed meats are associated with a higher risk of cancer.

Crispy potato pouches

“Our culture values ​​convenience, which is great, but convenience doesn’t mean you have to eat processed foods with added sugar and salt,” said Dr. Andrew.

High salt intake is the single biggest cause of high blood pressure, which can set the stage for serious health problems like heart disease.

Therefore, the doctor recommended to stay away from the small packets of salty crunchy carbohydrates that can be found in vending machines.

Sahara

While it is possible to enjoy a sweet dessert from time to time, you should keep your consumption of sweets to a minimum.

Eating too much sugar can contribute to weight gain, which can lead to an increased risk of health problems such as heart disease, certain cancers, and type 2 diabetes.

Lots of protein

Protein is an essential nutrient that many of us don’t get enough of, but overeating can also be harmful.

Dr. Andrew said: “It’s not uncommon for people to get twice the amount of protein they need in one day, which puts a strain on the kidneys and can cause more problems down the road.”

What’s more, a recent study found that men who ate a high-protein diet had a 33% higher risk of developing heart failure.

Many people also consume protein primarily from meat, which is often high in saturated fat, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.

Energetic drinks

Dr. Andrew said he avoids energy drinks at all costs because studies show that the combination of sugar and caffeine in drinks can lead to health problems such as high blood pressure or an irregular heartbeat.

The good news is that the caffeine in tea or coffee can be quite beneficial in moderation.

Coconut oil

With no distinct flavor or aroma, these fats are often classified as a healthy alternative without sacrificing flavor.

However, coconut oil is rich in saturated fats, which can raise bad cholesterol levels.

Dr. Andrew concluded that people could continue to use it as a moisturizer, but not in the kitchen.

Source: Express