You know what they say: you are what you eat. The food you put into your body plays a crucial role in your overall health. This is especially true when it comes to factors like weight management and heart health. Unfortunately, many of the tastiest, most convenient foods are also the worst for your body.
To highlight a few especially detrimental options to avoid if you’re after a healthier heart and a flatter belly, we spoke to Dr. Sarah Bonza of Bonza Health. She told us that sugar-sweetened beverages, processed meats, processed chips and snack mixes, and instant noodles are all options you may want to avoid. Learn more about the risks of each below.
1. Sugar-Sweetened Beverages
We all love a sweet beverage every now and then, but overindulging in sugar-packed drinks can take a serious toll on your health in the long run. Dr. Bonza highlights the dangers of sugary beverages, particularly those containing high-fructose corn syrup. She states, "The problem with these drinks is that they are very sugar-filled, with high-fructose corn syrup in particular, leading to weight gain, build-up of abdominal fat, and insulin resistance." Continuous consumption of these beverages can contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome, significantly increasing the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Yikes! Choose low-sugar beverages whenever possible.
2. Cured and Processed Meats
Cured and processed meats like hot dogs, sausage, and salami may seem convenient (not to mention delicious), but Dr. Bonza urges caution due to their detrimental impact on heart health. She explains, "Processed meats, which contain sodium and preservatives such as nitrates, are linked to hypertension and a higher incidence of heart disease." Additionally, their high calorie and fat content can contribute to weight gain, further exacerbating cardiovascular risks.
3. Chips and Snack Mixes
While these tempting salty snacks are satisfyingly crunchy and flavorful, chips and snack mixes pose significant risks to heart health, according to Dr. Bonza. She warns, "Naturally high in sodium and sometimes prepared in unhealthy fats, these snacks may result in an increase in blood pressure and cholesterol." Moreover, their addictive nature often leads to overconsumption, contributing to obesity and its associated cardiovascular complications. Luckily, there are plenty of healthy snacks to replace them with.
4. Instant Noodles and Ramen
If you ate a lot of instant noodles in your college days, you're certainly not alone—but it might be time to retire your habit if you're concerned about your heart and your waistline. Despite their convenience, instant noodles and ramen are far from heart-healthy options. Dr. Bonza cautions against their consumption, citing their high sodium and saturated fat content as major concerns. She states, "Nutritionally poor but high-calorie, they can lead to weight gain and a poor overall diet quality." Regular consumption of these processed noodles increases the risk of hypertension and heart diseases over time. They could even lead to skin issues.
Bottom line
Ultimately, while ultra-processed foods offer convenience, they also pose significant threats to heart health and weight management. While indulging in some potato chips every now and then won't kill you, it's always best prioritize whole, nutrient-dense foods for the benefit of long-term cardiovascular well-being. Making informed dietary choices today can help safeguard against heart disease and promote a healthier, happier future.
