In today’s world, where convenience often trumps nutrition, many of us reach for fast food and sugary drinks without fully considering their long-term impact on our health.
But what if the foods and drinks we regularly consume are quietly undermining our well-being?
Dr. Jeremy London, heart surgeon, and TikTok influencer, sheds light on the issue by identifying four common categories of food and drink that can seriously harm our health.
Dr. Drawing on her expertise in cardiovascular medicine, London emphasizes the importance of making informed choices for a healthier life.
Maintaining a long and healthy life often depends on the foods and drinks we consume on a daily basis. Although there are exceptions, a balanced diet plays a key role in overall well-being. Dr. Jeremy London, a heart surgeon on TikTok, recently shared a video identifying four common categories of foods and drinks that he advises people to avoid for better health.
Fast food: Tempting yet harmful
The first recommendation of Dr. London is to avoid fast food. He describes most of them as “edible food products”, implying that they lack real nutritional value. Fast food is usually loaded with high calories and low in essential nutrients. According to a 2017 study in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, these foods often contain chemicals, artificial ingredients, added sugars, corn syrup, salt, and dyes, all of which can have harmful effects on the body.
Soft Drinks: The Liquid Threat
Dr. London refers to both regular and diet sodas as “liquid death.” Soft drinks are notorious for their high sugar content, which has been linked to several health problems, including obesity, diabetes, and poor blood sugar regulation. UCLA Health points out that consuming just one soda a day can significantly increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Additionally, diet sodas—often marketed as healthier alternatives—can lead to increased hunger and metabolic disturbances, resulting in health consequences similar to those of regular sodas. For optimal health, Dr. London recommends avoiding soft drinks altogether.
Dairy products: Not as healthy as you think
Milk and milk products are another point of contention. Dr. London notes that humans are the only mammals that consume milk from infancy and other species.
According to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, dairy is the leading source of saturated fat in the American diet, which contributes to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease. While some studies suggest that fat-free or low-fat dairy products may offer some benefits, more research is needed to fully understand their impact on health. Dr. London advises limiting or eliminating dairy products to reduce potential health risks.
Alcohol: a toxic substance
Finally, Dr. London addresses alcohol, calling it “absolutely toxic to every cell in our body.” The World Health Organization classifies alcohol as a Group 1 carcinogen, a category that includes substances such as tobacco and asbestos. Even moderate alcohol consumption can lead to several health problems. Oncology experts, including nutritionist Nichole Andrews and Dr Waqgas Tai, are urging people to avoid alcohol because of its harmful effects. There is consensus among health professionals that the risks associated with alcohol far outweigh the potential benefits.
In conclusion, the recommendation of Dr. Jeremy London offers valuable insights into the impact certain foods and drinks can have on our health. By avoiding fast food, soft drinks, dairy products, and alcohol, we can reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases and improve our overall well-being. These dietary choices, while tempting or culturally ingrained, often come with hidden health costs that can take a toll on our bodies over time.Â
A balanced and mindful approach to nutrition is essential for long-term health. The Council of Dr. Londona serves as a reminder that the foods and beverages we consume play a direct role in maintaining or jeopardizing our health. By choosing nutrient-dense options and limiting harmful substances, we can protect ourselves from several serious health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer.
While the idea of ​​eliminating these foods may seem daunting, small, consistent steps toward healthier choices can make a big difference. Focusing on whole, natural foods, staying hydrated with water, and being aware of portion sizes are practical ways to improve eating habits. Conscious choices about what we eat and drink can ultimately help ensure a longer, healthier life.