It’s no secret that what we put on our plate has an impact on our health. A diet too high in salt, saturated fat and sugars increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Find out what foods to avoid for a healthy heart.

Most people consume 9 to 12 grams of salt per day, which is twice the maximum recommended intake. However, excessive salt intake increases high blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke and myocardial infarction. In practice, the WHO recommends consuming less than 5 grams of salt per day in adults, or the equivalent of a teaspoon. The problem is that the salt is hiding everywhere (cheeses, cold meats, soups, pizzas, quiches, ready meals, sauces, pastries, meats and poultry). Hence the interest in limiting its consumption of industrial products and favoring home-made products.

Too much meat is bad for cardiovascular health. According to the national health nutrition program, our meat consumption (excluding poultry) should be limited to 500 grams per week, which corresponds to about three or four steaks. Eating too much beef, pork, veal, mutton, lamb and offal increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, due to their high content of saturated fatty acids which raise cholesterol levels.

According to the WHO, our sugar intake should be less than 25 grams per day, or the equivalent of 6 teaspoons. However, a 33cl can of Coke contains 28 grams of sugar, which is almost the amount not to be exceeded per day. Excessive consumption of sodas leads to weight gain and therefore increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. Also watch out for fruit juices, which are just as rich in sugars. Better to use fruits to squeeze yourself and unsweetened flavored waters!

Sausage, bacon, bacon, salami, ham… Deli meats and processed meats are rich in saturated fatty acids and salt. A harmful cocktail for cardiovascular health. For example, 5 to 6 slices of sausage contain 5 grams of salt, which is the maximum daily consumption limit recommended by the WHO. According to the national health nutrition program, our consumption of cold meats should be limited to 150 grams per week, which corresponds to about three slices of white ham.

According to the spot from the Ministry of Solidarity and Health broadcast on television and on online video platforms, “Alcohol is a maximum of 2 drinks a day and not every day”. The risks of cancer, cerebral hemorrhages and hypertension exist even with low alcohol consumption. You should therefore reserve your alcohol consumption for special occasions.