Salty foods are a staple in many diets, but excessive sodium intake can have serious implications for heart health. High-sodium diets contribute to increased blood pressure, a leading risk factor for heart disease and clogged arteries. Over time, this strain on the cardiovascular system can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, restricting blood flow and raising the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Believe it or not, certain salty foods that are probably in your kitchen right now can have harmful effects on cardiovascular health.
“Excessive sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure, which, in turn, may increase the risk of developing atherosclerosis—a condition where the arteries can become clogged with fatty substances,” warns nutritionist Krutika Nanavati. Below, experts revealed the two foods you should steer clear of to avoid these issues: frozen pizza and potato chips. Read on to get all their insights.
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1. Frozen pizza
There's nothing quite like a frozen pizza when you're craving it. And in addition to the deviously delicious taste of all that cheese and carbs, it's so easy to prepare on a busy night. Unfortunately, though, Nanavati warns that regularly eating this frozen food is a poor choice for your heart health.
"A staple in many households, frozen pizzas are often loaded with cheese and processed meats, making them incredibly high in sodium," she warns. "Furthermore, many popular brands have a thick crust that adds to the overall sodium content."
"The saturated and trans fats from the cheese and processed toppings—like pepperoni or sausage—are a big driver of LDL (bad) cholesterol, which builds up as plaque along artery walls," Dr. Bhaskar Semitha warns. When your arteries narrow, your blood flow is reduced, ultimately putting a strain on your heart. A healthier choice is homemade pizza on a whole-grain crust, topped with fresh veggies and a light sprinkle of low-fat cheese. "Adding leafy greens like spinach boosts fiber and helps manage cholesterol, keeping arteries clearer," he suggests.
2. Potato chips
Potato chips are one of the most classic, popular snacks out there. Unfortunately, experts warn that they're also extremely unhealthy and could lead to a range of health issues, including weight gain and heart complications, when eaten in excess on a regular basis. As it turns out, they may also lead to clogged arteries.
"Regular potato chips are typically deep-fried in unhealthy oils, which are high in saturated and trans fats," Sabat says. "These fats can increase cholesterol levels and promote the formation of plaque in the arteries, leading to clogged arteries over time."
Nutritionist Susan Schachter agrees, adding that they're also "loaded with excessive sodium," which comes with its own fair share of health complications. She notes that "the combination of trans fats and high sodium intake can raise LDL cholesterol levels and increase the risk of arterial plaque formation, leading to clogged arteries and cardiovascular diseases."
