Corn flakes and white bread linked to heart pressures
Food high in carbohydrates such as white bread and corn flakes can increase the risk of heart disease, impair blood vessel functioning, and cause a range of cardiovascular problems, according to a new Israeli study.
Dr Michael Shechter, a senior cardiologist with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine at Tel Aviv University, said that “the main take-home message is that high-glycemic index carbs are dangerous since they reduce or inhibit endothelial function – which is the ‘risk of the risk factors’ – leading to atherosclerosis and potentially leading to heart disease”.
“Based on our study we do urge consumers to have low-glycemic index carbohydrates instead of high-glycemic carbohydrates for better health and less potential hazards for the vascular blood flow function,” Dr Shechter said.
High-glycemic meals which are likely to increase blood sugar levels and also interfere with the function of blood vessels include white bread, corn flakes, and instant potatoes. Those with a low-glycemic index include oatmeal, legumes, nuts, and most fruits and vegetables.