Connect with others who understand.

  • Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  • Real advice from people who’ve been there
  • People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of MyHeartDiseaseTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member asked a question 💭
Hagerstown, MD

https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-food-out...

Food processing level outweighs plant-based label for heart health benefits, study finds
Food processing level outweighs plant-based label for heart health benefits, study finds
October 19, 2025
 · 
Reactions
A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member

Found pasta for breakfast. Not a bad thing

October 19, 2025
MyHeartDiseaseTeam

What are the best food choices for heart health when considering processed versus unprocessed foods?

The key to heart health lies in choosing minimally processed foods, regardless of whether they are plant-based or not. Here are the recommended food choices:

• Fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
• Lean proteins Show Full Answer

What are the best food choices for heart health when considering processed versus unprocessed foods?

The key to heart health lies in choosing minimally processed foods, regardless of whether they are plant-based or not. Here are the recommended food choices:

• Fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
• Lean proteins including skinless poultry and fatty fish
• Beans and lentils in their natural form
• Plant-based oils (except tropical oils)
• Reduced-fat, unsweetened dairy products To maintain heart health, it's important to avoid or limit:

• Ultra-processed foods, regardless of their source
• Foods high in saturated fats and trans fats
• Processed meats (like pepperoni, sausage, and bacon)
• Foods with added sugars and high sodium content
• Refined carbohydrates like white rice and pasta

A helpful tip is to read food labels carefully and look specifically for information about saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars - these are key indicators of processing levels that affect heart health.

October 19, 2025

Related Questions

View All
A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member asked a question 💭
Hagerstown, MD

A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member asked a question 💭
Hagerstown, MD