Cardiologist warns eating these six foods will destroy your heart and could kill you

It can lead to an increase chance of blood clots and fatty deposits building up in the arteries.

These can lead to damage to the brain, heart, kidneys and the eyes, according to the NHS.

More than 66,000 people die of cardiovascular diseases in the UK every year.

Diseases in under 40s have been accelerating in recent years, with some doctors suggesting that the consumption of processed food is to blame.

Processed foods are higher in salt, fat, and sugar and contain artificial additives.

Cardiologist, Dr Sharonne Hayes, explained that there isn’t a specific food that will solve the problem and said it was about having a balanced diet.

“There isn’t a food that will save your life.

"And there isn’t one that’s going to kill you, it is about balance,” she told Today.

“So the occasional cheesecake isn’t going to kill you, but it really is what you eat and how much you eat that’s so critical.”

She suggested six foods that people should try to avoid or limit consuming.

Processed meats like bacon and sausages are high in calories, saturated fats and salt, whilst also including nitrates which are bad for the heart.

Cutting out processed meats, as well as reducing alcohol intake and reducing the amount of red meat in a diet can all reduce the risk of cancer.

Crisps are another food that should be avoided as they can raise blood pressure through salt consumption which can lead to heart disease and strokes.

People should instead snack on fruit and vegetables.

Dr Andrew Freeman said: “Our culture values convenience, which is great, but convenience doesn’t mean you have to eat packaged processed foods with added sugars and salt”.

Pudding contains high levels of sugar which can contribute to weight gain, individuals who are overweight are at far higher risk of heart disease, cancer and diabetes.

Having too much protein can cause kidney problems for some, with a recent study revealing that men who live on a high-protein diet increase their risk of heart failure by 33 per cent.

The recommended amount of protein equates to around two portions of meat, fish or tofu a day.

Energy drinks are a must avoid as numerous studies have revealed the consumption of them leads to high blood pressure and arrhythmia due to the caffeine and sugar in them.

Coconut oil is another one to avoid, despite many believing that it is a healthy alternative to other fats.

However, it contains more saturated fat than lard does.