2 Unexpected Breakfast Foods That Could Be Raising Your Blood Pressure And Your Risk Of Heart Disease, Experts Say

1. Bagels

Bagels are undeniably one of the most delicious breakfast foods around. Unfortunately, they're also one of the least healthy breakfast foods around. Not only are they packed with refined carbs, but Feder points out that they're also surprisingly high in sodium, making them a poor choice for your heart health.

"Bagels may seem like a safe bet when it comes to your blood pressure but they are actually usually quite high in sodium," he says. "One bagel can set you back 400-800mg of sodium depending on the type and size. This can contribute to increases in blood pressure which can damage your blood vessels over time and lead to heart disease." Yikes! It's best to stick to complex carbs and healthy bread options instead.

2. Smoked fish

Although salmon makes a good source of lean protein for breakfast, Feder tells us that smoked fish may not be the best option for your heart due to its high sodium content. "While fish itself is quite healthy, the smoking process adds a ton of sodium to it," he says.

Like bagels, he explains that consuming high amounts of smoked fish for breakfast can contribute to high blood pressure and heart disease over time. Instead, consider opting for oven-baked options.

Ultimately, of course, it's okay to treat yourself to your favorite breakfast from time to time—even if that's a bagel with lox. However, it's important to remember that the foods we eat on a regular basis can make or break our health in the long run, so limiting your intake of these foods as much as possible is a good idea.

READ MORE: How To Add More Potassium To Your Diet To Lower Blood Pressure