Eliminating These 3 Foods From Your Diet Can Be A Game-Changer For Heart Health

Tom_Young67 via Getty Images Hint: All three foods are shown in this photo. “The curing process of bacon with sodium nitrite and its high sodium content can elevate blood pressure, while the compounds formed during cooking, like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heterocyclic amines, contribute to inflammation and damage to blood vessels, collectively increasing the risk of heart disease.” While bacon is the greatest offender, Dr. Saman Setareh-Shenas, a cardiologist at Cedars-Sinai, said that anyone who is eating with heart health in mind should be wary of processed meats in general, as well as red meats. “White bread, with its high glycemic index and lack of nutrients and fiber compared to whole-grain options, can lead to rapid blood sugar spikes, insulin resistance and weight gain, all of which increase the risk of heart disease and related complications,” she said. “Quinoa and whole-wheat bread are heart-healthy choices due to their rich nutrient profile, including fiber, phosphorus, zinc, plant-based protein and antioxidants, which collectively lower LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease,” she said. “Their high fiber content regulates blood sugar levels and supports a healthy gut, contributing to overall heart health.” Keeping your heart healthy is a lifelong journey, and diet is only part of the picture.