Thinking about starting a keto diet for better health? Think again! While it’s often seen as a path to weight loss, leading heart health expert Dr. Ali Haider warns against its potential harm.
Parade magazine sheds light on how this trendy eating plan could contribute to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease—the leading cause of death in the U.S.
So, what’s the big deal with plaque buildup? Dr. Haider explains it simply: it’s like gunk clogging up your heart’s arteries, which can trigger heart attacks if left unchecked. While tests exist to detect plaque, the focus should be on prevention through lifestyle changes, including diet.
Here’s where the Mediterranean diet shines. Unlike keto, which promotes high saturated fat intake, the Mediterranean approach is low in these fats and has a solid track record for heart health. The key takeaway? Know your numbers (blood pressure, sugar, cholesterol), live a healthy lifestyle (no smoking, balanced diet, exercise), and understand your family history.
This advice from Parade, backed by Dr. Haider’s expertise, offers a clear roadmap to protect your heart. So, before jumping on the latest diet trend, consider the long-term impact on your heart health. After all, trendy isn’t always healthy!