A recent report by the Irish Heart Foundation has shed light on the alarming statistics surrounding heart disease and stroke in Ireland. With diet being identified as the key risk factor for these conditions, experts are urging the public to reconsider their food choices and opt for healthier alternatives.
The report, titled Primary prevention of cardiovascular disease: Best practices and Lessons for Ireland, highlights the fact that heart disease and stroke are responsible for a significant number of deaths in the country. In 2021 alone, these conditions accounted for 8,753 deaths, making up over a quarter of all deaths that year.
One of the main culprits identified in the report is ultra-processed foods (UPF), which have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. UK consultant cardiologist Dr Neil Srinivasan warns against consuming foods that have undergone multiple processes during manufacturing, such as breakfast cereals, baked goods, and fizzy drinks.
According to Dr Srinivasan, people who consume the most UPF are 24% more likely to develop serious heart disease or have a stroke. Additionally, each 10% increase in daily intake of UPF is associated with a 6% rise in heart disease risk.
To combat this issue, Dr Srinivasan recommends avoiding five key foods: breakfast cereals, salami, crisps, ice-cream, and fizzy drinks. These items are high in saturated fats, sugar, and additives, all of which can contribute to poor heart health.
Dr Chris van Tullekan, author of Ultra-processed People, explains how certain additives in processed foods can damage the microbiome, leading to inflammation and other health issues. The microbiome plays a crucial role in overall health, influencing everything from immune function to brain health.
With mounting evidence linking poor diet to chronic diseases, experts are calling for a shift towards whole, unprocessed foods. Dr Catherine Conlon, a public health doctor, emphasizes the importance of making small changes to improve overall health. Cutting out just a few major culprits, such as crisps and sugary beverages, can have a significant impact on heart health.
As individuals, it’s important to be mindful of the food choices we make on a daily basis. By opting for whole, nutrient-dense foods and avoiding processed items, we can reduce our risk of developing heart disease and other chronic conditions. It’s never too late to start making healthier choices and prioritizing our long-term health and well-being.