Expert named products dangerous for the heart

# Three Categories of Products That Destroy Blood Vessels: Doctor's Warning **Specialists have named the main enemies of heart and vascular health — these are the very products that provoke the accumulation of "bad" cholesterol and trigger the development of atherosclerosis.** Olga Tarasova, Associate Professor at the Department of Hospital Pediatrics No. 2 at the Institute of Motherhood and Childhood of Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, told Gazeta.ru about this. ## Trans Fats — The Absolute Leader in Harmfulness At the top of the blacklist are trans fats. These are vegetable oils converted into a solid substance through hydrogenation. "This is the absolute leader in harmfulness. They not only raise LDL (low-density lipoprotein) levels but also lower HDL (high-density lipoprotein), as well as cause systemic inflammation that damages blood vessels," the doctor warned. Where does the danger lurk? In spreads, margarines, cheap baked goods — croissants and cookies, chips, French fries, deep-fried dishes, some candies, and popcorn. The doctor recommends reading labels carefully: the inscription "partially hydrogenated fats" is a warning signal. ## Saturated Fats: Dangerous When Overconsumed The second risk group is saturated fats of natural origin. They are not enemies in themselves, but their excess overloads the liver and forces the body to produce its own cholesterol. "Sources include fatty cuts of red meat (pork, lamb, beef brisket), lard, butter, palm and coconut oil, high-fat dairy products — cheeses with more than 30% fat content, cream, and sour cream," O. Tarasova explained. Important: complete elimination of these products is not necessary — they participate in hormone synthesis. The optimal proportion is 7–10% of daily caloric intake. ## Sugar and Simple Carbohydrates: A Hidden Threat The third category is insidious because its impact on blood vessels is often underestimated. We're talking about added sugar and easily digestible carbohydrates. "They contain no direct cholesterol, however, their excess causes sharp insulin spikes. This activates the enzyme responsible for cholesterol synthesis in the liver. Additionally, excess glucose is converted into triglycerides," the doctor explained. This group includes: sugar, packaged juices, sweet carbonated drinks, baked goods made from white flour, white rice, and confectionery products. **The specialist's main conclusion:** moderation and balanced nutrition are the key to heart and vascular health.