Eating and drinking the right foods can play a big role in living a long, healthy life. While some people may have different experiences, a balanced diet is key for most.
Recently, TikTok heart surgeon Dr. Jeremy London shared a video about four foods and drinks he recommends avoiding to stay healthy.
Fast Food: Tasty but Risky
Dr. London’s first concern is fast food. He describes most of it as an “edible food product” rather than real food.
Fast food is often high in calories and low in nutrients. A 2017 study in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine found that fast foods are packed with chemicals, artificial ingredients, corn syrup, sugar, salt, and coloring agents. These can all negatively affect health.
Soft Drinks: Bad for the Body
Dr. London refers to regular and diet sodas as “liquid death.” He explains that sugary drinks are linked to serious health issues like obesity and diabetes.
According to UCLA Health, drinking just one soda per day can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. Even diet sodas aren’t much better, as artificial sweeteners can also affect blood sugar control.
Milk Products: Not as Healthy as You Think
Milk and dairy are often debated in nutrition. Dr. London points out that humans are the only species that drink milk after infancy.
The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine notes that dairy is a major source of saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease, diabetes, and other health problems.
While fat-free or low-fat dairy may have some benefits, Dr. London suggests that the safest choice is to limit or avoid dairy altogether.
Alcohol: Harmful for the Body
Dr. London warns that alcohol is toxic to every cell in the body.
The World Health Organization classifies alcohol as a Group 1 carcinogen, the same category as asbestos and tobacco. Even occasional drinking can be harmful.
Health experts like dietitian Nichole Andrews and Dr. Waqqas Tai agree that the risks of alcohol far outweigh any benefits.
Conclusion
Dr. London’s advice highlights how food choices impact long-term health. While avoiding fast food, sodas, dairy, and alcohol may be difficult, doing so could bring big health benefits.
Instead, the American Heart Association suggests a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and beans to reduce the risk of chronic disease. Making smart food choices today can lead to a healthier future.