Many health-conscious Britons may be unwittingly raising their blood pressure through seemingly nutritious food choices, an expert has cautioned.
Plant-based meats have become a popular alternative for those reducing animal consumption.
However, Medical Director at MEDvidi, Dr Michael Chichak, warned there is a disconnect between the perception and reality of the foods we eat.
"Plant-based meats are a popular substitute for regular meat, but they are loaded with sodium and can raise blood pressure," he cautioned.
These aren't the only culprits lurking in health food aisles, however, as snack options are also packed with problematic ingredients.
"Unlike other 'healthy' snack options, granola bars are laden with added sugars which may result in insulin resistance, further negatively impacting one's overall health," Dr Chickak warned.
He named low-fat salad dressings as another culprit, noting that they often contain harmful additives.
Dr Chichak points out that these products "may also give the impression of being better for you but also contain harmful ingredients such as sodium benzoate or high-fructose corn syrup".
"Always reading the labels will guarantee that one will steer clear from hidden ingredients that can spiral one's health choices," he advised.
Fortunately, there are tools to help shoppers identify truly heart-healthy options.
The NHS Better Health campaign promotes healthier food choices, partnering with supermarkets to promote health-conscious shopping habits.
Shoppers can use tools like the Food Scanner app and the "Good Choice" badge to inform their choices.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Experts recommend switching to whole fruits and vegetables as healthier alternatives. Lean meats and unsalted nuts are also excellent choices for those concerned about blood pressure.
These whole foods naturally contain less sodium and fewer harmful additives than their processed counterparts.
Staying hydrated with water is another simple way to support heart health.
Limiting sweeteners in your diet can also contribute to better cardiovascular outcomes.
Find Out More...
Plant-based meats have become a popular alternative for those reducing animal consumption.
However, Medical Director at MEDvidi, Dr Michael Chichak, warned there is a disconnect between the perception and reality of the foods we eat.
"Plant-based meats are a popular substitute for regular meat, but they are loaded with sodium and can raise blood pressure," he cautioned.
These aren't the only culprits lurking in health food aisles, however, as snack options are also packed with problematic ingredients.
"Unlike other 'healthy' snack options, granola bars are laden with added sugars which may result in insulin resistance, further negatively impacting one's overall health," Dr Chickak warned.
He named low-fat salad dressings as another culprit, noting that they often contain harmful additives.
Dr Chichak points out that these products "may also give the impression of being better for you but also contain harmful ingredients such as sodium benzoate or high-fructose corn syrup".
"Always reading the labels will guarantee that one will steer clear from hidden ingredients that can spiral one's health choices," he advised.
Fortunately, there are tools to help shoppers identify truly heart-healthy options.
The NHS Better Health campaign promotes healthier food choices, partnering with supermarkets to promote health-conscious shopping habits.
Shoppers can use tools like the Food Scanner app and the "Good Choice" badge to inform their choices.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
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Experts recommend switching to whole fruits and vegetables as healthier alternatives. Lean meats and unsalted nuts are also excellent choices for those concerned about blood pressure.
These whole foods naturally contain less sodium and fewer harmful additives than their processed counterparts.
Staying hydrated with water is another simple way to support heart health.
Limiting sweeteners in your diet can also contribute to better cardiovascular outcomes.
Find Out More...