A leading heart surgeon has shared six everyday habits he believes people should avoid to protect their heart health, warning that some of these can “actively poison” the body.
Dr. Jeremy London, a cardiovascular surgeon based in Georgia, performs heart surgeries regularly and sees firsthand how poor lifestyle choices contribute to heart disease. Speaking to TODAY.com, Dr. London explained that heart problems usually develop over time, often due to unhealthy habits.
Heart and circulatory diseases remain a leading cause of death in the UK and worldwide. According to the British Heart Foundation, coronary heart disease is the most common cause of heart attacks and claimed more lives globally than any other disease in 2019.
Dr. London advises people to avoid these six things:
1. Smoking and Vaping
“Smoking is the worst thing you can do for yourself,” Dr. London said. He explained that smoking speeds up the process of atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque in arteries, especially for those already at risk. He also warned about vaping, as research has shown that it can cause harmful changes to the heart and blood vessels.
2. Alcohol
Dr. London quit drinking three years ago, calling it one of the most transformative decisions he’s made.
“Alcohol is toxic to every cell in your body,” he said, adding that even small amounts of alcohol can harm your health over time.
3. Soft Drinks
Soft drinks, especially sugary ones, are high in calories that many people consume without realising. Dr. London calls them “a scourge in our society” and recommends avoiding them altogether.
4. Alcohol-Based Mouthwash
Dr. London advises switching to alcohol-free mouthwash. Killing certain mouth bacteria can increase blood pressure, particularly in people already prone to hypertension.
5. Foods Made With Refined Flour
Products like white bread and pasta are made from refined flour, which removes important nutrients such as fibre, iron, and B vitamins. Dr. London recommends choosing whole grain options to help maintain heart health.
6. Ultra-Processed Foods
“The longer the shelf life, the shorter your life,” Dr. London said. He encourages eating whole, minimally processed foods, as ultra-processed items are linked to heart disease and even some cancers.
Dr. London’s message is simple: small changes in daily habits can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and improve long-term health.
