Many people are unknowingly damaging their hearts by eating food items they consider ‘normal’ every day, a cardiologist has warned.

Aurelio Rojas says a clear pattern emerges among patients he sees with high blood pressure, elevated triglycerides, chronic inflammation and visceral fat: a daily reliance on seemingly harmless processed foods.

According to Rojas, science increasingly points to a group of everyday products that can significantly increase cardiovascular risk when consumed regularly.

Processed meats like sausages, ham and deli slices are among the worst offenders. High in sodium and preservatives such as nitrites, they have been consistently linked to heart disease.

Sugary sauces – including ketchup and barbecue sauce – are another hidden problem. They can spike blood sugar and insulin levels, contributing to inflammation over time.

Breakfast cereals, often marketed as healthy, are also under scrutiny. Many ultra-processed varieties produce glucose spikes comparable to soft drinks – so it’s important to read the labels.

Even plant-based milks are not always as healthy as they appear. Flavoured versions can contain surprisingly high amounts of added sugar, so it’s always best to buy unsweetened varities.

And then there are ‘light’ products, which may be low in fat, but often compensate with higher sugar content.

Rojas said it is not about cutting everything out but maintaining a balance.

‘These foods aren’t the problem occasionally, the problem is when they become part of your daily routine,’ he said.

Eating these products from time to time is unlikely to cause harm. But consuming them every day creates a cumulative effect that can quietly damage cardiovascular health over the years.

It means reducing how often these foods appear in your diet, choosing less processed alternatives and being mindful of hidden sugars can make a significant difference.

Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.