Foods we often assume are healthy can actually increase cholesterol, raise blood pressure, and contribute to clogged arteries when eaten in excess. Cardiologists would advise avoiding these items altogether.
The main culprits are fatty meals, fast food, sugary drinks, sweets, and instant soups. Store-bought processed meats are especially problematic because they contain high amounts of salt. Sugar should also be limited because it promotes the development of diabetes, which puts a heavy burden on the heart. Deep-frying is harmful as well because it disrupts lipid metabolism.
Products that look healthy but aren’t
Margarine is a common example. Marketing and some manufacturers promote margarines as cholesterol-lowering and heart-friendly, but that is not entirely accurate. Some margarines contain palm oil, a source of saturated fatty acids that increase levels of harmful cholesterol.
“Sugar-free” drinks and snacks
Zero-sugar beverages are not as harmless as they appear. These drinks flood the market as replacements for sweetened sodas and energy drinks. Researchers warn that sweeteners in products labeled “zero,” “diet,” or “light” can contribute to the development of diabetes and obesity, both of which strain the heart. Using artificial sweeteners such as aspartame or sucralose has also been linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure.
So-called diet bars are often not diet-friendly either. Bars marketed with healthy-sounding names and eco-friendly packaging frequently contain copious amounts of sweeteners, palm oil, and other ingredients that are detrimental to heart health.