Foods That Are Not Healthy for Your Heart

While eating heart-healthy foods is an essential part of proper nutrition, it's just as important to limit or avoid foods that are bad for the heart. Knowing which foods can damage the heart over time is crucial to prolonged health and life.

Saturated Fat

Solid saturated animal fat should be very limited in the diet. Saturated fats lead to increased levels of LDL (bad cholesterol), which poses many threats to heart health.

Trans Fat

Trans fats, partially hydrogenated unsaturated fats, should be completely avoided in the diet. Excessive trans fat consumption is one of the greatest risk factors for coronary artery disease. Some places around the world have actually banned trans fats in recent years.

Refined White Flour

Eating excess amounts of refined flour has been linked to heart disease and, because of its high glycemic index, diabetes as well. Instead, opt for whole grain products.

Vegetable Oils

Oils high in omega-6 fatty acids (canola, sunflower, corn, coconut) contribute to the development of heart disease, according to Health-Heart.org. They raise LDL levels and can even cause irregular heart rhythms with excessive consumption over time.

Sugar

Sugar should be eaten in limited quantities. It has an array of negative health effects, including contributing to high cholesterol and heart disease, according to Health-Heart.org. Raw sugar, honey and molasses are better alternatives.

References

• Health-Heart.org