4 snacks that silently clog blood vessels

Many medical studies have shown that some popular junk foods can cause serious damage to the cardiovascular system. Although they do not have an immediate effect, these foods gradually increase the risk of atherosclerosis, high blood pressure and heart attack.

1. Cookies: The Dangers of Trans Fat

Commercially baked cookies and pastries often contain large amounts of trans fats, an ingredient that can increase bad cholesterol (LDL) and decrease good cholesterol (HDL).

According to nutritionists, regular consumption of this type of fat can cause fat accumulation in the artery walls, narrowing the lumen and increasing the risk of coronary artery disease.

Several studies have shown that many commercial cookie products contain hydrogenated vegetable oil, a common form of trans fat that is often overlooked by consumers when choosing foods.

2. Instant noodles: High salt content is harmful to blood pressure

Instant noodles are one of the popular foods but contain high levels of salt, which can increase blood pressure if eaten regularly. According to reports from health organizations, consuming too much sodium not only affects the cardiovascular system but also causes water retention, increasing the burden on the kidneys.

Many cases of early-onset hypertension have been reported in people who regularly eat instant noodles, raising concerns about the long-term effects of this food on cardiovascular health.

3. French fries: Reused frying oil and the risk of clogged arteries

Potato chips are a favorite snack for many people, but few people realize that this food contains a large amount of saturated fat and trans fat, especially when the frying oil is reused many times.

Many studies show that frying oil at high temperatures can create lipid oxidation compounds, damaging blood vessel walls and increasing the risk of atherosclerotic plaque formation.

Although it does not have an immediate effect, eating fried potatoes over a long period of time can reduce the elasticity of blood vessels and lead to serious cardiovascular complications.

4. Candy: Risk of damage to blood vessel walls due to sugar

Candy with high sugar content can increase blood sugar levels, stimulating the body to continuously produce insulin. Eating a lot of sugar over a long period of time not only contributes to obesity but also negatively affects blood vessel walls, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis.

Many health experts warn that sugar is not only the cause of diabetes, but is also closely related to cardiovascular disease. Limiting candy and products containing refined sugar is one of the important measures to protect blood vessel health.

Control consumption to protect health

Although many types of junk food are harmful to blood vessels, using them wisely can still help limit the risk. According to nutritionists, the most important principles are portion control and choosing healthy foods.

Some foods that can replace unhealthy snacks include unsalted nuts, unsweetened yogurt, and fresh fruit. Additionally, reading nutrition labels can help consumers avoid foods that are high in trans fats and sugar.

Advice from the experts:

- Limit eating cookies, fried foods, and processed foods.

- Control salt intake from instant noodles and packaged foods.

- Choose healthy snacks like fruit, nuts, or yogurt.

- Stay away from foods that contain hydrogenated vegetable oils or trans fats.

- Maintain a balanced diet, combined with a reasonable exercise regimen.

Experts emphasize that the impact of junk food on health does not happen immediately, but if not controlled, it can become the cause of many dangerous diseases in the future.

Lesley Montoya

Update 10 February 2025