Many ultra-processed foods like chips, crackers, packaged baked goods, and frozen packaged meals should be limited, especially for those at increased risk of heart disease.
Many of the foods that can contribute to hypertension have become everyday household staples, says Brynna Connor, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician specializing in anti-aging and regenerative medicine in private practice in Austin, Texas. “Excess sodium, added sugar, and saturated fats are frequently found in heavily processed foods, which are popular because they’re often convenient, affordable, and widely available,” says Dr. Connor. “People who eat the most ultra-processed foods have a nearly 50 percent higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease,” says Young.
It’s nearly impossible to avoid ultra-processed foods entirely. But simple steps to reduce the amount of ultra-processed foods in your home can make a meaningful difference. Prepare simple meals and snacks at home when possible with whole food ingredients like fresh or frozen fruits, vegetables, lean meats, nuts, seeds, natural cheeses, and whole grains. Look for short and simple ingredient lists and limit products with lots of added sugars, flavors, colorings, and preservatives.
