A healthy lifestyle and clean diet are essential to protect your heart from disease. In addition to reducing your salt and alcohol intake, it’s important to avoid eating red meat. The friendly heart doctors at DiVagno Interventional Cardiology, MD, PA, provide top-quality cardiac testing and screening services for patients throughout Rochelle Park, NJ. They discuss a few reasons why you should avoid the food.

Why Heart Doctors Urge You to Avoid Red Meat

1. Hardens Blood Vessels

Arteries are vessels that carry blood to your heart and other areas of the body. Carnitine, a compound found in red meat, is linked to atherosclerosis, a condition in which the arteries harden and clog due to plaque build-up. As such, increased levels of carnitine may increase the risk of a heart attack.

2. Causes Inflammation

Red meat has high levels of iron and saturated fat, which can promote inflammation in various areas of the body, including around the heart. While it takes a long time for inflammation to build up, it could eventually obstruct blood flow to the heart, which would then cause an attack.

3. Increases Risk of Heart Problems

Red meats, such as beef and lamb, contain more cholesterol and saturated fat than lean protein alternatives. The increase of cholesterol in the blood can put you at risk for serious heart-related problems, such as heart disease, attacks, and strokes. It’s best to fill your protein intake from other healthier sources, such as chicken and fish.

If you have concerns about your health, it’s best to see a cardiologist for regular screenings. For the leading heart doctors in Rochelle Park, NJ, call (201) 845-3535 to schedule an appointment at DiVagno Interventional Cardiology, MD, PA. They use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and equipment to provide their patients with premium care. Visit the website for more information about the heart doctors and their full list of services.