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Cardiologist warns against this ‘worst ever’ diet for heart health, rates popular eating trends from best to worst

Published on: Sep 28, 2025, 15:01:32 IST
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Mediterranean diet rated best for heart health by Dr Jason Kovacic. (Freepik)
Mediterranean diet rated best for heart health by Dr Jason Kovacic. (Freepik)

From carnivore to Mediterranean, a cardiologist ranks popular diets for heart health, sharing which ones to embrace and which to avoid for your wellbeing.

From keto to Mediterranean to intermittent fasting, diets promise quick results, but which ones are genuinely good for your heart and long-term health? Cardiologist and Institute Director Professor Jason Kovacic shared his views on popular health trends in a September 17 Instagram post on the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute’s page, helping people understand which ones are worth considering and which are best avoided. (Also read: Cardiologist says ‘even 20 minute brisk walk helps’; shares warning signs and lifestyle habits to prevent heart problems )

Cardiologist Dr Jason ranks popular diets and lifestyle choices based on heart health:

1. Carnivore diet – 1/10

According to Dr Jason, the carnivore diet scores the lowest for heart health. “The worst diet ever invented for heart health, full of saturated fat,” he says. He warns that while it may appeal to some for quick weight loss, its high levels of saturated fat make it detrimental to cardiovascular well-being.

2. Mediterranean diet – 10/10

At the other end of the spectrum, the Mediterranean diet receives top marks. “Balanced Mediterranean diet, fresh fruit, fish, legumes, love it,” Dr Jason explains. He emphasises that this diet supports not only heart health but also overall longevity and wellness, making it the gold standard for a balanced lifestyle.

3. Red wine – 2–3/10

Even certain lifestyle choices like moderate red wine consumption get mixed reviews. “Red wine, 2 or 3 out of 10. Good for vascular health, prevents heart attacks and strokes, but not good for other aspects of our health,” Dr Jason notes. While it may have cardiovascular benefits, he cautions against overestimating its impact on overall wellness.

4. Biohacking – Variable

Dr Jason briefly mentions the growing trend of biohacking, highlighting that while some techniques may benefit health, others could be harmful if not approached carefully.

Note to readers: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

  • Akanksha Agnihotri
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Akanksha Agnihotri

    Akanksha Agnihotri is a lifestyle journalist with over 3 years of experience. She is a psychology graduate and holds a postgraduate diploma in Radio and Television Journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Delhi, where she graduated as a gold medalist. Originally from Bhopal, the beautiful capital of Madhya Pradesh, she draws inspiration from the city’s rich cultural heritage and layered storytelling traditions that subtly shape her narrative voice. She writes extensively about fashion, beauty, health, relationships, culture, and food, exploring everything from trending styles and runway moments to wellness routines and mindful living. Passionate about meaningful and candid conversations, she enjoys interviewing celebrities, doctors, designers, and film personalities, diving into discussions on fitness, beauty, mental health, and everything fun in between. With a keen eye for trends and a thoughtful understanding of human behaviour, she brings depth, sensitivity, and authenticity to her stories, ensuring they resonate with a wide and diverse audience. When she’s not working, you’ll usually find her lost in a book, planning her next mountain trek, or mapping out spontaneous travel escapes. She loves discovering new authors, revisiting old favourites, and spending quiet afternoons in museums soaking in art, history, and culture. An avid bird-watching enthusiast, she finds joy in early morning walks, spotting rare birds, and reconnecting with nature. Whether sipping coffee while journaling her thoughts or exploring hidden corners of a new city, she constantly seeks inspiration in everyday moments that often turn into compelling story ideas.Read More

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