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Did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death for people in the United States? Things like high cholesterol, obesity, and high blood pressure are all things that can put you at greater risk for having heart disease later in life. And on top of that, the traditional American lifestyle already leaves you susceptible. Between the high rates of obesity and the amount of sugars and preservatives in our food, it’s important to be proactive by leading a lifestyle that promotes heart health. That starts with your diet—knowing what you’re putting into your body and the effect it has on you is crucial.
One of the worst things you can eat if you are already at risk of heart-related health issues is saturated fat. Historically, all fats have been demonized by diet culture media, when in actuality there are some types of fat that are good for you, and actually necessary for a healthy mind and body. For example, monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats, which are found in things like nuts, fish, and vegetable oils, have a number of health benefits and should be incorporated into your diet regularly.
However, one of the worst forms of fat you should be watching out for is saturated fat. Not only does saturated fat cause buildup of cholesterol in your arteries, but it’s also very calorie dense, meaning that it could be adding extra calories to your diet, which could lead to unwanted weight gain. Saturated fats do not need to be avoided altogether, but it is important to watch how much of them you’re consuming—the American Heart Association recommends that saturated fat should make up no more than 6% of your daily calorie intake. Foods that are high in saturated fat include butter, red meat, and most deep fried foods.
When it comes to the worst types of canned food to eat, there is no canned food that is high in saturated fat simply because it’s canned. However, eating canned versions of foods that are high in saturated fats already may be better to avoid. For example, eating canned beef of any kind, like sausages or ground beef, should be kept in moderation. Additionally, many canned food items contain lots of added sodium. Too much sodium can cause the body to retain water, putting additional strain on the blood vessels and leaving the body susceptible to high blood pressure. If you’re going to eat beef or any kind of red meat, it’s better to purchase it fresh in the store and cook it at home.
While you don’t have to cut out saturated fats altogether, it’s important to remember how you eat them and what you’re eating them with. Reading food labels, being strategic, and following a diet that centers around a variety of fruits and vegetables is the best way to lead a preventative lifestyle.
