A stomach expert shares five common breakfast items that can harm your health
London: Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day, but one doctor has a different take. Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist, shared on TikTok five breakfast foods he thinks you should steer clear of because they’re just not good for you.
He pointed out that many popular breakfast choices, like bacon, cereal, and even granola, can be unhealthy. Some folks skip breakfast to lose weight, but research shows that eating breakfast can actually help keep weight off. If you skip it, you might end up super hungry by lunchtime and reach for unhealthy snacks.
So, what does Dr. Sethi recommend avoiding? First up is bacon. He says it’s highly processed and packed with unhealthy fats and nitrates, which have been linked to various cancers. Next, regular breakfast cereals often have a ton of sugar, so they’re not the best choice either.
Granola is another one to watch out for. While it seems healthy, it usually contains high sugar and unhealthy fats. Pancakes are okay in moderation, but he prefers whole wheat and egg-based ones. Lastly, doughnuts are a no-go in the morning because they can cause a big sugar spike.
On the flip side, a cardiologist suggests a daily breakfast that can help prevent heart issues. Studies show this food can benefit cholesterol and blood pressure. In the UK, more people are adding fruit to their breakfasts, with overnight oats becoming popular for their health benefits.
One fruit that Dr. Andrew Freeman, a heart health expert in Denver, loves is berries. They’re packed with antioxidants and can help prevent type 2 diabetes. He recommends pairing them with oats for a nutritious start to the day.
Oatmeal is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and it’s linked to lower cholesterol and weight control. Dr. Freeman’s go-to breakfast is oatmeal made with water, topped with berries and heart-healthy extras like flax seeds or walnuts. He advises against instant oatmeal, suggesting rolled oats instead for a healthier option.
