Achieving a long, healthy life often hinges on the foods and drinks we choose to consume daily. While there may be exceptions, maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for most individuals. Recently, Dr. Jeremy London, a well-known cardiac surgeon and TikTok influencer, shared a video highlighting four types of foods and beverages he advises avoiding to promote optimal health.
Fast Food: Convenient but Harmful
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Dr. London first points to fast food, which he describes as "edible but not truly nutritious." Fast food often lacks essential nutrients while being loaded with excess calories. According to a 2017 article in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, many fast-food options contain chemicals, artificial ingredients, high-fructose corn syrup, sugar, artificial sweeteners, salt, and synthetic dyes—all of which can be harmful to health.
Sodas: Liquid Destruction
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Both regular and diet sodas come under scrutiny in Dr. London’s recommendations. He refers to them as "liquid death" because of their association with numerous health issues, including obesity, poor blood sugar control, and diabetes. UCLA Health reports that even one soda a day can significantly increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Diet sodas, often marketed as healthier alternatives, can also disrupt metabolism and stimulate appetite, leading to health problems similar to those caused by regular sodas. Dr. London strongly advocates for eliminating all sodas to protect your overall health.
Dairy Products: A Controversial Staple
Milk and other dairy products also make Dr. London’s list. He points out that humans are the only species that consume milk from other animals and continue drinking milk past infancy. The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine highlights that dairy products are a major source of saturated fats in the American diet, contributing to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Although some studies suggest that fat-free or low-fat dairy may offer certain health benefits, further research is needed to fully understand the impact of dairy on health. Dr. London recommends limiting or avoiding dairy products to minimize potential risks.
Alcohol: Toxic to the Body
Finally, Dr. London calls attention to alcohol, labeling it "toxic to every cell in our bodies." The World Health Organization classifies alcohol as a Group 1 carcinogen, putting it in the same category as tobacco and asbestos. Even light or occasional alcohol consumption can cause harm, increasing the risk of various health issues. Oncology experts like dietitian Nichole Andrews and physician Waqqas Tai echo this sentiment, cautioning against alcohol’s damaging effects.
A Healthier Approach to Eating
Dr. London’s advice serves as a reminder of how food and drink choices significantly influence heart health and overall well-being. While cutting out fast food, sodas, dairy products, and alcohol might be challenging, doing so can lead to noticeable health benefits.
Instead, the American Heart Association recommends focusing on a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes. Making mindful choices about what we consume can help foster a healthier lifestyle and reduce the risk of chronic illnesses. By prioritizing wholesome, nutrient-dense foods, we can take proactive steps toward a longer, healthier life.
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