41 Foods That Are Bad for Your Heart
7 Reduced-fat salad dressings
What makes reduced-fat salad dressings a cardiac crime is that they’re hidden sources of sugar and salt, says Fisher.
“When fat is removed, sugar is typically added to maintain the taste and texture,” she says. Just because it’s low in fat or calories doesn’t mean it’s healthy.
“I recommend my clients to look beyond macronutrients. Even when macros fall perfectly in line with what’s traditionally recommended for fat, carbohydrates and protein levels, a diet can fall short on nutrition,” Fisher says. “For example, are the carbohydrate sources highly processed and low in fibre? Is the protein lean? Is the fat heart-healthy?”
8 Fat-free packaged snacks
Even worse than reduced fat is unnaturally zero fat. “Fat-free packaged foods were once touted as a healthy option for individuals wanting to lose weight and maintain a healthier lifestyle,” Fisher says. No longer.
A good rule of thumb: Avoid any product that is not ordinarily fat-free. What it doesn’t have in fat, it makes up for in sugar.
“Read food labels and ingredient lists to determine how many grams of sugar may have been added as a fat substitute. Many types of natural fats are healthy and promote satiety, which in the long run can reduce cravings and overeating,” she continues.
9 Fat-free peanut butter
Seek out all-natural, full-fat, sugar-free nut butter for a great source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. “Low-fat peanut butter usually contains the same calories as its counterpart. Again, you’re trading fat for sugar,” Fisher says.
The ingredient list should read: “Peanuts, Salt.” You’ll earn bonus points from Fisher if you can spot or grind up a jar made with nuts alone (in other words, without extra sodium).
