Cardiovascular diseases refer to conditions that affect the heart or blood vessels, which can lead to increased chances of blood clots and fatty deposits building up in the arteries, causing damage to the brain, heart, kidneys, and the eyes, according to the NHS.
More than 66,000 people in the UK die of cardiovascular diseases every year, with diseases in under 40s accelerating in recent years, prompting some doctors to suggest that consumption of processed food is the main cause.
Processed foods are higher in salt, fat, and sugar and contain artificial additives, and hence cardiologist Dr Sharonne Hayes advised Britons against eating certain foods that can lead to a number of cardiovascular diseases.
Dr Hayes said that having a balanced diet is key, and that there isn’t a specific food that will solve the problem. She recommended that people try to avoid or limit consuming six foods, including processed meats like bacon and sausages, which are high in calories, saturated fats and salt, and nitrates, which are harmful to the heart.
Cutting out processed meats, reducing alcohol intake, and limiting the amount of red meat in one’s diet can all reduce the risk of cancer. Crisps should also be avoided as they can raise blood pressure through salt consumption, leading to heart disease and strokes. Instead, people should snack on fruit and vegetables.
Pudding is another food that should be avoided due to its high sugar content, which can contribute to weight gain, making individuals who are overweight more vulnerable to heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
Dr Hayes also cautioned against having too much protein, which can cause kidney problems for some, as a recent study has shown that men who live on a high-protein diet increase their risk of heart failure by 33 per cent.
The recommended amount of protein equates to around two portions of meat, fish, or tofu a day. Britons should also avoid energy drinks as several studies have linked their consumption to high blood pressure and arrhythmia due to the caffeine and sugar in them.
Lastly, despite many people believing that coconut oil is a healthy alternative to other fats, it contains more saturated fat than lard does. Dr Andrew Freeman noted that while convenience is valued in our culture, it doesn’t mean that we have to eat packaged processed foods with added sugars and salt.
Instead, choosing fresh fruits and vegetables as well as lean sources of protein can promote a balanced diet and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.