Cardiologist Dr. Ulyana Urasova emphasizes that knowing which foods can cause serious damage is crucial for cardiovascular health.
According to her, it is mainly related to trans fats found in margarine, industrial pastries, fast food, and many snack foods.
She said: "Trans fats raise the level of so-called bad cholesterol, while at the same time lowering the concentration of good cholesterol, leading to a serious imbalance that contributes to the development of atherosclerosis. Excessive consumption of sugar and sweets also causes similar damage."
She added that foods high in sugar raise blood glucose levels quickly, which over time may lead to obesity and type 2 diabetes, thus increasing the burden on the heart.
She said: "Salt, or rather a high level of sodium in the diet, leads to fluid retention and high blood pressure, which are major risk factors for cardiovascular disease."
The specialist stressed that processed meat products, such as sausages, hot dogs, and others, deserve special attention because they contain large amounts of salt, saturated fats, and preservatives, which negatively affect cardiovascular health.
She added: "Full-fat dairy products are a source of calcium, but at the same time they contain a high percentage of saturated fats, so it is advisable to limit their consumption. Fast food, which combines fats, salt and sugar, also contributes to weight gain, high cholesterol levels and metabolic disorders."
The doctor pointed out that white bread and refined flour products have a high glycemic index, which leads to a rapid rise in blood sugar levels and puts additional pressure on the heart and blood vessels.
