Minimize or avoid these six foods to reduce your risk of heart disease

Doctors say the Western lifestyle, which often includes processed foods, contributes to the development of heart disease.

And since eliminating problematic foods is not always possible, according to cardiologists, moderation and portion control are key factors.

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 no other food will kill you, it’s all about balance. What you eat and how much you eat is critical.”

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

1. Sausages

The experts explained that processed meats such as sausage and bacon are high in calories, saturated fat, salt, and contain additional ingredients such as nitrates that are bad for the heart.

Worse, according to Dr. Andrew, processed meats are associated with a higher risk of cancer.

2. Potato chips

“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.

He explains that high salt intake is the main cause of high blood pressure, which can set the stage for serious health problems such as heart disease.

Therefore, the doctor recommended to stay away from small packets of salty and crunchy carbohydrates.

3. Pudding

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

Eating a lot of sugar can increase people’s calorie intake and therefore weight gain, which can lead to an increased risk of health problems such as heart disease, certain cancers, and type 2 diabetes.

4. Lots of protein

Protein is an essential nutrient that many don’t get enough of, but eating too much can be harmful.

Recently, many have become obsessed with protein, especially those who love to exercise.

Andrew noted that it has become commonplace to see people getting 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.

Doctors advise not to overdo it and choose vegetable protein instead. Two servings of meat, fish, nuts, or tofu per day should be enough.

5. Energy drinks

Dr. Andrew said that energy drinks should be avoided 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.

6. Coconut oil

Many people mistakenly believe that coconut oil is a substitute for healthy fat, when in fact it contains more saturated fat than lard.

And these saturated fats can raise your “bad” cholesterol levels. Dr. Andrew concluded that people could continue to use it as a moisturizer, but not in the kitchen.

Source: Express