US Doctor Warns of 5 Popular Drinks Damaging Heart Health

A US anti-aging medicine specialist has warned that beyond food choices, "beverages" consumed daily can significantly impact heart health, particularly drinks high in sugar, alcohol, or artificial sweeteners. Regular consumption of such drinks may increase the long-term risk of heart and cardiovascular disease.

Dr. Vassily Eliopoulos, an anti-aging medicine expert from Cornell University and co-founder and chief medical officer of Longevity Health, disclosed on March 24 that many people prioritize food selection but overlook the impact of beverages on cardiovascular health.

Five Beverages to Limit:

1. Coffee with High Sugar and Artificial Cream: While black coffee has research supporting health benefits, adding sugar, flavored syrups, or large amounts of cream significantly reduces nutritional value. A large latte with flavored syrup may contain up to 50 grams of sugar—more like dessert than a health drink.

2. Sports Electrolyte Drinks: These typically contain high levels of carbohydrates and calories, with some containing food coloring. Unless engaging in intense exercise or continuous athletic competition, most people have little need for carbohydrates from such drinks, as plain water combined with proper electrolyte intake suffices.

3. Alcoholic Beverages: Regular alcohol consumption may elevate blood pressure, affect sleep quality, and trigger inflammation—all factors increasing cardiovascular disease risk.

4. Sugar-Free Soft Drinks: While many choose diet sodas hoping to reduce health impact, synthetic sweeteners may stimulate insulin release and affect gut microbiota balance. Some large studies have found correlations between consuming such drinks and cardiovascular disease risk, though causation remains unclear.

5. High-Sugar Fruit Juice: While fresh fruit is beneficial, fruit juice differs. It contains natural sugars in high amounts but minimal fiber, allowing rapid absorption and quick blood sugar spikes. This may elevate triglyceride levels and trigger increased pancreatic insulin production.

Three Long-Term Heart Health Behaviors:

Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj, a US cardiologist, notes that normal health check results don't guarantee complete heart strength. Heart health requires continuous behavioral adjustments, including:

1. Sleep at least seven hours nightly, as prolonged sleep deprivation may increase blood pressure, trigger inflammation, and elevate stress hormones like cortisol.

2. Exercise regularly to strengthen heart muscle and enable efficient blood circulation.