If you’re trying to boost your overall wellbeing, adding heart-healthy foods to your diet is a smart move. But some everyday staples might be quietly undoing your efforts.
It’s no surprise that sugary snacks, alcohol and fried foods can put pressure on your heart. But there’s another category experts warn about that’s often overlooked: processed meats.
Ham, bacon, sausages, jerky and canned meats may be convenient, but when eaten regularly, they could do more harm than good. “Many studies have shown their toll on health and their link to a higher risk of heart disease,” says cardiologist Dr Francisco Lopez-Jimenez. “Preservatives used in meat processing have been shown to increase the risk of cancer, high blood pressure and other chronic conditions.”
One large-scale study in 2021 tracked the diets of 135,000 people and found that regularly eating processed meat significantly raised the risk of heart disease. Specifically, eating 150 grams or more per week was linked to a 46% increase in cardiovascular risk and a 50% increase in the risk of early death compared to not eating processed meat at all.
The study defined processed meat as any type of meat that has been salted, cured or treated with preservatives and food additives.
While reducing or avoiding processed meats is one important step, protecting your heart involves a broader lifestyle approach—think balanced eating, regular exercise and stress management.
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