Heart disease is a major health concern that affects millions of people worldwide. While genetics and lifestyle factors play a crucial role in determining your risk of developing heart disease, your diet also plays a significant role.

Certain foods can increase your risk of heart disease, so it’s important to be mindful of what you eat. Below, we’ve compiled a list of 20 foods that can raise your risk of heart disease.

1. Processed Meats

Processed meats like sausages, hot dogs, bacon, and salami are high in saturated fats, sodium, and added preservatives. These unhealthy additives can lead to the buildup of plaque in your arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease.

2. Sugar-Sweetened Beverages

Sugary drinks like soda and fruit juice contain high amounts of added sugars. Regular consumption of these beverages can lead to weight gain, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and ultimately an increased risk of heart disease.

3. Trans Fats

Trans fats are artificial fats that are commonly found in fried and processed foods like French fries, doughnuts, and pastries.

These fats raise your LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and lower your HDL (good) cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of heart disease.

4. Refined Grains

Foods made from refined grains, such as white bread, white rice, and pasta, have been stripped of their fiber and nutrients. Consuming these foods regularly can lead to weight gain, inflammation, and an increased risk of heart disease.

5. Fast Food

Fast food meals are typically high in unhealthy fats, sodium, and calories. Regular consumption of fast food can lead to high blood pressure, weight gain, and an increased risk of heart disease.

6. Processed Snacks

Snack foods like chips, crackers, and cookies are often high in unhealthy fats, sodium, and sugars. These foods contribute to weight gain, high cholesterol levels, and an increased risk of heart disease.

7. Margarine

Margarine is a common butter substitute that often contains trans fats. These artificial fats are detrimental to heart health and can increase your risk of heart disease. Opt for healthier alternatives like olive oil or avocado instead.

8. Alcohol

While moderate alcohol consumption can have some health benefits, excessive drinking can contribute to high blood pressure, obesity, and an increased risk of heart disease. It’s important to consume alcohol in moderation.

9. Canned Soup

Many canned soups are loaded with sodium, preservatives, and unhealthy fats. A high intake of canned soup can lead to high blood pressure, weight gain, and an increased risk of heart disease. Opt for homemade or low-sodium alternatives instead.

10. Full-Fat Dairy Products

Full-fat dairy products like whole milk, cheese, and butter contain high levels of saturated fats. These fats can raise your LDL cholesterol levels and increase your risk of heart disease. Choose low-fat or non-fat dairy options instead.

11. Artificial Sweeteners

While they may be calorie-free, artificial sweeteners can still contribute to weight gain, increased blood sugar levels, and an increased risk of heart disease. It’s best to limit your consumption of these sweeteners.

12. High-Sodium Foods

Foods that are high in sodium can contribute to high blood pressure and an increased risk of heart disease. Limit your intake of processed foods, canned foods, and restaurant meals as they often contain excessive amounts of sodium.

13. Fried Foods

Fried foods like fried chicken, fries, and onion rings are typically high in unhealthy fats and calories. Regular consumption of fried foods can lead to weight gain, high cholesterol levels, and an increased risk of heart disease.

Opt for healthier cooking methods instead, such as baking, grilling, or steaming.

14. High-Fat Salad Dressings

Many store-bought salad dressings are loaded with unhealthy fats, sugars, and sodium. These dressings can turn a healthy salad into a calorie-dense and nutritionally imbalanced meal. Make your own dressings using healthy oils, vinegar, and herbs.

15. Red Meat

While lean cuts of red meat can be part of a balanced diet, excessive consumption of processed and fatty red meats like beef, lamb, and pork can raise your risk of heart disease.

Opt for leaner protein sources like poultry, fish, or plant-based alternatives whenever possible.

16. Excessive Salt

Consuming excessive amounts of salt can contribute to high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease. Be mindful of your salt intake and try to season your foods with herbs and spices instead.

17. High-Fat Desserts

Desserts like cakes, cookies, and pastries are usually high in unhealthy fats, added sugars, and calories. Regular consumption of these high-fat desserts can lead to weight gain, high cholesterol levels, and an increased risk of heart disease.

Opt for healthier dessert options like fresh fruits or homemade treats made with healthier ingredients.

18. Shellfish

While shellfish can be a good source of lean protein, certain types like shrimp and lobster are high in cholesterol. If you have high cholesterol or a family history of heart disease, it’s best to limit your intake of shellfish.

19. High-Fat Nuts

Nuts are a healthy snack option, but certain types like macadamia nuts and pecans are higher in unhealthy fats compared to others. While you can still enjoy them in moderation, opt for lower-fat nuts like almonds or walnuts for better heart health.

20. Cakes and Pastries

Cakes, pastries, and other baked goods are typically high in unhealthy fats, added sugars, and refined grains. These desserts can contribute to weight gain, high cholesterol levels, and an increased risk of heart disease.

Limit your consumption of these treats and opt for healthier alternatives whenever possible.