Are you wanting to keep your heart healthy, but find yourself confused by the never-ending diet trends?

While we all know habits like smoking and being sedentary are harmful to our hearts, the murky waters of diet can be misleading. From keto diets promoting bacon-infused meals to the allure of deep-fried snacks, it becomes essential to decipher what our heart health truly demands.

Leading cardiologists have shared a list of foods they avoid to keep their hearts—and yours—healthy. While enjoying them occasionally won't be life-threatening, these experts suggest that regular consumption can lead to serious health risks. Let’s dive into the foods they’d recommend steering clear of!

1. Chopped Liver

Many find chopped liver appealing, but Dr. Eleanor Levin from Stanford University has sworn it off entirely. Why? This high-fat red meat not only contains saturated and trans fats that can worsen heart conditions but is also notorious for filtering toxins. "I used to eat it as a kid," Levin notes, "but I wouldn’t touch it again."

2. Breakfast Sausages

You might enjoy a hearty breakfast of sausage, but beware! Dr. Harmony Reynold from NYU Langone Health warns against margarine often used in breakfast dishes as it can be just as harmful as butter. “Switch to olive oil for cooking instead,” she advises, stating that such replacements can lower your risk of premature death.

3. Steak

Steak lovers, this one might hit hard. Dr. Leonard Lilly, chief of cardiology at Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital, cautions against fatty red meats. "Research links saturated fat to increased cardiovascular disease risk," he explains, underscoring that moderation is key for health and longevity.

4. Bacon

Renowned for its deliciousness, bacon is largely a no-go for Dr. Francoise Marvel at Johns Hopkins University. This processed meat is laden with saturated fats and sodium, both culprits in raising blood pressure. Dr. Marvel suggests swapping bacon for heart-healthy avocado slices next time you enjoy breakfast.

5. Deep-Fried Chicken

Who doesn’t love crispy fried chicken? Dr. Sanjay Maniar from Houston believes you should think twice. He warns that deep-fried options can elevate LDL (bad cholesterol) levels, leading to a higher risk of strokes. Grilling or baking is a healthier way to enjoy chicken without sacrificing flavor.

6. Doughnuts

Though tempting, doughnuts are often fried in oils that contain harmful trans fats, according to Dr. Jayne Morgan in Atlanta. “These contribute to serious conditions like Type 2 diabetes,” she explains. Watch out for those labels to avoid health risks that come with indulging in these sweet treats frequently.

7. Bologna

Considered a throwback for many, bologna is best left on the shelf. Dr. James Udelson of Tufts Medical Center describes bologna as a symbol of processed meats loaded with salt, which historically contributes to heart disease. Instead, he advocates for a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fresh vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

8. Processed Snacks

Finally, let’s not forget about processed snacks. From potato chips to packaged cookies, these are often high in salt and sugar, posing a risk to cardiovascular health. Opt for nuts and whole fruits instead, which are delicious while supplying your body with essential nutrients.

While everything in life is fine in moderation, these cardiologists unanimously recommend minimizing these foods to foster a healthier heart. Occasional indulgences—like a slice of bacon or a doughnut—may not lead to immediate consequences, but consistently making heart-friendly choices can pave the way for a longer, healthier life. Your heart will thank you!