Cardiovascular Disease remains a leading cause of death worldwide, claiming millions of lives each year. While genetics and lifestyle factors like lack of exercise play a role, what you eat can be a significant contributor to heart health. Lifestyle changes are very important in preventing heart Disease and other chronic conditions. Yes we live in an environmentally toxic world. We also live in a world of toxic foods.
One food you must decrease consumption of are fats. Saturated fats and trans fats top the list. Found in foods like fast food, red meat, and dairy products, these fats can significantly elevate your LDL cholesterol levels. High LDL cholesterol is a known risk factor for developing heart disease, as it contributes to arterial plaque formation, which can lead to blockages and heart attacks. You must ask your doctor to perform a fractionated lipid panel for particle size. This is vital. Those with a LDL that is small dense and ‘sticky” are at the post risk. these are Pattern B particles.
Then there is the obvious sugar consumption. Consuming foods and drinks high in sugar can lead to weight gain, one of the risk factors for heart disease. These simple carbohydrates will increase your blood sugar leading to unstable glucose and eventually type II diabetes . Diabetes is a risk factor for heart Disease. It is the sister and brother relationship Most if not all diabetics will eventually get diabetes if the individual does not manage their glucose levels.
And then there is Salt. Salt is a staple in most kitchens, but its excessive consumption can have dire consequences for heart health. High salt intake is directly linked to elevated blood pressure, a significant risk factor for heart disease. Processed foods, canned soups, and even some breads can be surprisingly high in salt. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 2,300 milligrams a day and an ideal limit of 1,500 milligrams per day for most adults. However using no salt or using ‘ pink’ salt is not the answer. Those individuals that restrict all salt or use pink salt, which has no iodine will cause signs and symptoms of a low thyroid ( Hypothyroidism) As a physician , I have seen many new cases of hypothyroidism when individuals consume no iodine in their dietary lifestyle. If you do not want salt, get your iodine from fish and seaweed.