Dairy
Dr. Wu recommends skipping full-fat dairy products for the sake of your heart.
The doc recommends swapping your full-fat milk with a dairy-free alternative like oat or almond milk (Getty Images)
Low-fat options like milk, yogurt, and cheese can reduce fat intake while still providing dairy benefits.
“For milk, consider alternatives like almond or oat milk, which deliver a creamy consistency without the animal fats that heighten heart disease risks,” the doctor suggested.
Sugar and cookies
The American diet is often criticized for being one of the unhealthiest worldwide due to a mix of processed foods, saturated fats, and excessive sugar, contributing to diabetes and various chronic conditions.
Dr. Wu warns that high sugar intake can jeopardize heart health, contributing to obesity and high blood pressure.
We know cookies and pastries aren’t beneficial, given their high sugar and fat content, but many packaged foods and drinks—such as cereals and energy drinks—also contain hidden sugars.
Weight gain from sugar is particularly harmful to the heart, as it can lead to increased triglycerides and LDL cholesterol, along with bodily inflammation.
Excessive sugar and salt won’t help our waistlines or our heart health (Getty Images)
Chips and snacks
Complementing sugar are their salty partners, like chips and similar snack foods.
Dr. Wu remarked, “They’re deemed junk food for a reason! Potato chips and other snack varieties are typically processed, fried, and packed with additives and sodium.”
“There’s nothing nutritious about them,” he continued. “They contribute to weight gain, heart disease, and stroke risk. For a snack, opt for a handful of nuts, seeds, or dried fruit chips instead.”
The doctor concluded, “When making food choices, prioritize nutritional items that support your heart’s function and steer clear of those that might hinder it.”
Featured Image Credit: Getty Stock Images
