6 Harmful Foods and Drinks to Avoid, According to Global Health Experts

Leading health experts from around the world have identified common foods and drinks that may be doing more harm than good. From sugary beverages to processed meats, these items are linked to weight gain, chronic illness, and poor gut health. Here's what to look out for, and why it's best to keep them off your plate.

1. Sugary Drinks

Dr. Mark Hyman, USA:
"Sugary drinks are like liquid sugar. They’re packed with empty calories that lead to weight gain and damage our metabolic health."

Why avoid them?
Sodas and sweetened juices contain high levels of sugar, preservatives, and acids that harm your teeth and heart health.

2. Processed Meats

Dr. Michael Greger, UK:
"Sausages and deli meats aren’t food- they’re bombs of nitrates and salt that damage the body. Best to avoid them completely."

Why avoid them?
Items like pastrami and hot dogs contain preservatives, saturated fats, and nitrates, all of which increase the risk of chronic diseases, including colorectal cancer.

3. Margarine and Hydrogenated Fats

Prof. Joanna Blank, Germany:
"Hydrogenated fats like margarine are processed with chemicals that harm the body- especially the heart and blood vessels."

Why avoid them?
Margarine contains trans fats, which raise bad cholesterol and contribute to heart disease.

4. Refined Grains

Dietitian Nathalie Roger, France:
"White bread and pasta may seem harmless, but they lack nutrients and cause blood sugar spikes. Choose natural, whole foods and remember, mindful eating is key to long-term health."

Why avoid them?
Refined grains are stripped of their fiber and nutrients, leaving behind a high-glycemic product that can contribute to weight gain and energy crashes.

5. Artificial Diet Foods

Dr. Patricia Castro, Brazil:
"Diet products with artificial sweeteners are a trap- they may be low in calories, but they harm gut bacteria and disrupt hunger signals."

Why avoid them?
“Sugar-free” products like diet yogurts or drinks often contain artificial sweeteners, which can damage the gut microbiome and interfere with your body’s natural appetite regulation.

6. Packaged Salty Snacks

Dietitian Anna Yamaguchi, Japan:
"Chips and salty snacks combine fat, salt, and chemicals- a recipe for addiction and long-term health problems. Good health starts with avoiding harmful foods."

Why avoid them?
Snacks like chips are loaded with trans fats, high sodium, and preservatives, all of which negatively impact your overall health.

While these foods may be convenient or tasty, regularly consuming them can take a toll on your metabolism, heart, gut, and immune system. Prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods is one of the best ways to protect your health for the long run.