Cardiologist reveals 5 foods he would never consume and what you should replace them with

Marketing products as healthy when they are not is how most of the packaged food industry runs these days. So if you sneak in a protein bar to satisfy your hunger pangs after the gym or consume “diet” or “zero sugar” sodas for your taste buds, this is for you.

Dr Sanjay Bhojraj, a US-based functional cardiologist, shared 5 things he would never eat on his Instagram account, and the list contains everyday items that you might not have given a thought to. He not only listed the foods to avoid but also shared their replacements with fresher, healthier items that are easily accessible.

Also read: Harvard-trained gastroenterologist shares 3 foods cancer is afraid of: Broccoli sprouts are one of them

5 foods to avoid for better health 

• Seed oils — canola, soybean, and corn oil

They have high levels of Omega-6 fats and are used to make processed and ultra-processed foods. The cardiologist explained, “Once they’re refined and heated, they oxidise and cause invisible inflammation inside your arteries and cells.”

Alternatives: Use olive oil, avocado oil, beef tallow, or grass-fed ghee.

• “Diet” or “zero sugar” products

Sodas do more harm than good to your body.“Artificial sweeteners trick your brain and gut into thinking sugar is coming, confusing your insulin response and making you crave more,” Dr Bhojraj pointed out.

Alternatives: Go for real fruit, dates or a touch of raw honey, as your body responds better to these foods.

• Flavoured yoghurts

Flavoured yoghurts contain added sugar, making their consumption comparable to having a dessert or artificial sweeteners. They can cause health problems like weight gain, diabetes, and more.

Alternatives: Opt for plain Greek yogurt, add fresh berries, and sprinkle with a touch of cinnamon.

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A post shared by Sanjay Bhojraj MD | Functional Medicine Doctor (@doctorsanjaymd)

• Protein bars

Protein bars are yet again promoted as healthy and good for your body, but Dr Bhojraj clarified, “Most are candy bars in disguise, loaded with seed oils and syrups that bloat your gut.”

Alternatives: Choose a handful of nuts or a boiled egg instead.

Also read: 7 best vegetarian protein alternatives to chicken, fish and eggs, approved by Dubai-based celebrity nutritionist

• ‘Vegetable’ chips

Part of processed foods, the cardiologist shared, “They sound clean, but they’re fried in the same inflammatory oils you’re trying to avoid.” They are high in calories, unhealthy fats, and have high sodium content.

Alternatives: Bake sweet potato slices or roast chickpeas at home.

In the end, Dr Bhojraj shared that all these replacements will help protect your heart health in the long term and prevent inflammation, which is the root cause of many major diseases.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis