By Abhay Ray 
Introduction
Have you ever reached for ‘healthy’ foods like coconut oil or whole wheat bread, believing you’re making heart-smart choices? Well, you might be unknowingly risking your heart’s health. After treating heart diseases for 20 years, California-based Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj, cardiologist and director of Cardiovascular Precision Medicine has shared 10 foods he would never buy.
About Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj
Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj is a California-based cardiologist and the Director of Cardiovascular Precision Medicine. With over 20 years of experience treating heart disease, he specializes in preventing and managing cardiovascular conditions through a combination of cutting-edge medical care and lifestyle-focused strategies. Dr. Bhojraj advocates for a holistic approach to heart health, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based nutrition, stress management, and individualized care. His mission is to help patients live longer, healthier lives by avoiding common dietary pitfalls—especially those disguised as “healthy” choices.
10 Foods Dr. Bhojraj Would Never Buy
- Agave syrup
According to the cardiologist, agave syrup is often marketed as a healthy sugar alternative, but it spikes triglycerides fast. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), they are a type of fat, called lipids,that circulates in your blood and is the most common type of fat in your body. Triglycerides come from foods, especially butter, oils, other fats you eat, and extra calories your body does not need right away.
- Coconut oil
Dr. Bhojraj stressed that coconut oil consumed in large amounts is harmful for your health as it is high in saturated fats, which is not great for already inflamed arteries.
- Store-bought granola
Per the cardiologist, store-bought granola is often ultra-processed and full of hidden sugars.
- “Whole wheat” bread
Often, “whole wheat” bread is a go-to option for people looking for a healthier alternative to bread. However, the cardiologist stressed that whole wheat bread might come with additives, and most are just brown-colored white bread.
- Flavoured Greek yoghurt
Flavoured Greek yoghurt has tons of sugar hiding behind the protein, Dr. Bhojraj wrote in the post.
- Plant-based meat substitutes
According to the cardiologist, plant-based meat substitutes are often full of seed oils, sodium, and additives.
- Rice cakes
Rice cakes are high glycemic and low in nutrients, which means they are a sure-shot ‘blood sugar rollercoaster’.
- Bottled green juices
Dr. Bhojraj stressed that bottled green juices are a ‘fructose bomb in disguise.’
- Flavoured sparkling water with “natural flavours”
Often, flavoured sparkling water that claims they have ‘natural flavours’ contains synthetic chemicals and acids that erode the gut lining, the cardiologist claimed.
- Gluten-free processed snacks
Lastly, Dr. Bhojraj said that gluten-free processed snacks are just as inflammatory. They just come with better branding.
Why these?
Per the cardiologist, what looks healthy on the label isn’t always heart-healthy. He added, “I’ve seen this play out with hundreds of patients. Inflammation, blood sugar spikes, and nutrient depletion don’t always come from junk food.”
Conclusion
Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj’s insights serve as a powerful reminder that not everything labeled “healthy” is truly beneficial for your heart. Many common grocery items—from agave syrup to gluten-free snacks—can silently contribute to inflammation, blood sugar spikes, and long-term cardiovascular issues. His 20+ years of experience show that even well-meaning food choices can backfire if they’re processed or sugar-laden.The key takeaway? Read labels carefully, prioritize whole, unprocessed foods, and don’t be fooled by marketing. Your heart depends on it.
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