A heart surgeon, Dr. Philip Ovadia, warns that refined carbohydrates may contribute significantly to chronic inflammation and plaque buildup in arteries—two major factors linked to heart attacks.

He explains that these foods can promote insulin resistance and trigger long-term inflammation, gradually harming cardiovascular health over time.

According to him, surgeons often witness the consequences firsthand. Unstable plaque in arteries can suddenly rupture, blocking blood flow and leading to severe or even fatal heart events.

Ovadia notes that the risk isn’t always obvious, as many foods labeled “healthy” still contain high amounts of refined carbohydrates.

Examples include breakfast cereals, bagels, rice cakes, flavored yogurts, instant oatmeal, fruit juice, crackers, granola, and potato chips—all of which can quickly spike blood sugar levels.

Refined carbohydrates are heavily processed and stripped of fiber, causing rapid digestion and repeated insulin spikes. Over time, this may increase the risk of inflammation, obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

As a healthier approach, he recommends focusing on whole, minimally processed foods like vegetables, fish, nuts, olive oil, legumes, and quality proteins—similar to a Mediterranean-style diet.

He also emphasizes that heart disease is influenced by multiple factors, including diet, lifestyle, genetics, exercise, stress, and sleep—not just a single type of food.