Clogged arteries can pose a serious risk to your heart health. Over time, consuming foods that can clog your arteries can result in issues like heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes. And while there are several no-brainers to avoid in this category, such as greasy fast food and red meat, you may not have considered the effect that processed sugary foods can have on the health of your heart. As it turns out, there’s one type of food in particular that experts say you should steer clear of in order to prevent clogged arteries and further cardiovascular risks: processed pastries.
To learn more about how processed pastries can clog your arteries and raise your risk of heart disease, we spoke to nutritionist Lisa Richards, creator of The Candida Diet. Find all of her expert insight—as well as some healthy alternatives to this popular food—below.
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Pastries
While it's hard to find a person who doesn't enjoy a tasty donut, croissant, or cheese danish from time to time, these sugary foods are, unfortunately, not the best option for your overall health. We probably don't have to tell you twice that excessive sugar consumption can lead to a range of health issues—and according to Richards, you can add clogged arteries to the list.
"Pastries are generally considered bad for artery health due to their high content of unhealthy fats, refined carbohydrates, and added sugars," she says. "The combination of trans fats and saturated fats found in pastries can increase levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides, contributing to the development of plaque buildup in the arteries." Yikes!
But it isn't just the fat in this food that puts your heart health at risk. Richards explains that the high glycemic index also poses serious concerns. "The high glycemic index of refined carbohydrates in pastries can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, promoting inflammation and potentially damaging the arterial lining," she says. "The added sugars in pastries also contribute to inflammation and can contribute to weight gain and an increased risk of developing conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes." Luckily, there are a few things you can do to manage your blood sugar in order to decrease your risk of these issues.
What to eat instead
If you can't bear the idea of giving up pastries, Richards offers some advice that may be able to fill that croissant-shaped hole in your heart. "Opt for whole grain pastries made with healthier fats like olive oil or avocado oil, and use natural sweeteners like fruit puree or dates instead of refined sugars," she says.
And when it comes to healthy, tasty breakfasts, that are plenty of great options out there. "Consider alternatives such as whole grain toast with nut butter, Greek yogurt with fresh fruits, or homemade oatmeal bars with nuts and seeds. These options provide more nutrients, fiber, and healthier fats, promoting better arterial health," Richards concludes.
