Cardiologist Lists 9 Popular American Foods He Refuses to Eat After Two Decades Treating Heart Disease

After more than 20 years treating patients with heart attacks, clogged arteries, and metabolic dysfunction, Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj, MD — a board-certified interventional cardiologist and certified functional medicine doctor — has identified a troubling pattern. Despite exercising and managing stress, many of his patients still suffered from serious cardiovascular problems, which he attributes to everyday food choices.

Dr. Bhojraj warns that many items marketed as “heart smart,” “plant-based,” or “low-fat” are, in fact, harmful to the heart. “Behind the buzzwords are ingredients that fuel inflammation, spike blood sugar, and quietly damage your arteries over time,” he said. The cardiologist shared nine common American foods he refuses to eat based on their impact on cardiovascular health.

People cooking healthy food | Source: Pexels

Among them are sugary breakfast cereals, which he compares to “desserts in disguise,” and processed deli meats, often preserved with nitrates linked to cancer and arterial damage. He also cautions against soda and energy drinks, including diet versions that may disrupt gut health, and deep-fried fast foods, which contain oxidized oils that can harm arteries.

Dr. Bhojraj advises replacing white bread and refined carbs with whole grains, and avoiding margarine, highly processed plant-based meats, sodium-heavy canned soups, and flavored coffee creamers containing artificial additives.

While he avoids all nine foods, Dr. Bhojraj emphasizes that gradual changes can make a measurable difference. “You don’t need to overhaul your entire diet overnight,” he said. “Small swaps add up — and your bloodwork will prove it.”