Cardiologist dad reveals 5 food items he will never let his kids eat or cook for them

A cardiologist recently highlighted how deeply a person’s heart health is influenced by their everyday diet, emphasizing that poor food choices can silently damage the cardiovascular system. Sharing his perspective on Instagram, Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj discussed five specific food items that he never allows on his children’s plates, warning that these seemingly common options can significantly harm the heart over time.

Dr. Bhojraj began by pointing to processed meats like bacon, hot dogs, and deli slices. These items, though convenient, are often packed with nitrates, preservatives, and unhealthy fats that trigger inflammation and elevate the risk of heart disease. He explained that such meats can gradually clog arteries and disturb the body’s natural balance.

Next on his list were sugary breakfast cereals. Although often marketed as wholesome or fortified with vitamins, many of them contain excessive sugar levels comparable to desserts. Consuming them first thing in the morning causes sudden insulin spikes, leading to energy crashes, metabolic strain, and long-term risks such as diabetes and obesity.

Dr. Bhojraj also warned against store-bought microwave popcorn, a snack many consider harmless. He noted that several commercially produced varieties contain trans fats and artificial flavoring agents, both of which can damage arteries and contribute to chronic inflammation, ultimately weakening heart function.

Another category he avoids is plant-based meat substitutes. While promoted as healthier alternatives to traditional meat, these products are often highly processed and include seed oils, artificial preservatives, and additives that disrupt hormones and negatively affect cardiovascular health.

Finally, he mentioned flavored yogurts, often mistaken for healthy snacks. Many of these contain sugar quantities even higher than soft drinks, leading to inflammation, unnecessary weight gain, and reduced metabolic efficiency.

Dr. Bhojraj concluded by reflecting on how the public has been misled into believing certain foods are healthy. This misconception inspired him to create his wellness program, Well12, designed to help people improve their fitness, lose weight, and increase energy within ten weeks while setting a powerful example for their families through mindful, heart-conscious eating.