Foods That Cause a Risk of Heart Disease

What you eat is an important part of determining your health now and in the future. Heart disease has many causes and risk factors that are associated with your diet, including obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure. According to the Mayo Clinic and the Food and Drug Administration, foods that cause a risk of heart disease include those high in fats and sodium.

Eggs

Eating eggs in moderation may not be harmful, according to the Mayo Clinic. But if you eat too many eggs or products with egg yolks, your "bad" cholesterol can increase, which can cause a risk of heart disease.

Processed Foods

Eating foods that are heavily processed, such as potato chips, hot dogs or cheese products may cause a risk of heart disease especially if you eat them in large amounts.

Salt

Salty foods include canned soups, pastas and vegetables as well as prepared boxed meals and snacks; adding salt at the table to your food can also increase your risk of heart disease.

Saturated Fats

Saturated fats are foods including red meats, whole milk dairy products and coconut and palm oil, and cause a risk of heart disease by allowing your arteries to harden and narrow.

Sugar

Although a sweet treat now and then may not be harmful, excessive amounts of sugary foods can lead to diabetes, which is a risk factor for heart disease.

Trans Fats

Trans fats are a type of fats that you may eat in prepared baked goods, fast food that is fried, margarine, boxed snack crackers and snack cakes. These should be limited to help avoid heart disease.

Resources

• Mayo Clinic: Heart Disease Prevention