Some popular “healthy” foods may not be as beneficial as they appear.
Superfoods consumed in excess may impact heart health
Gut-friendly options such as kimchi, kombucha and fruit smoothies could contain hidden levels of salt and sugar that may impact heart health, the British Heart Foundation (BHF) has warned.
While widely promoted for supporting digestion and the gut microbiome, experts say their nutritional profile can vary significantly depending on how they are made.
Fermented foods like kimchi and sauerkraut are often high in salt due to the preservation process. Regular consumption of high-salt foods is linked to increased blood pressure, a key risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The BHF advises consumers to be mindful of portion sizes and to look for lower-salt alternatives where possible.
Kombucha, a fermented tea known for its probiotic content, is often seen as a healthier substitute for sugary soft drinks. However, some commercially produced versions contain added sugars. Similarly, fruit smoothies and flavoured yoghurts can include high sugar levels, which may cause blood sugar to rise quickly.
Over time, excess sugar intake can contribute to weight gain, increasing the risk of serious conditions such as heart attack and stroke.
The BHF stresses that these foods can still play a role in a balanced diet, but moderation is key to avoiding potential health drawbacks.
Tracy Parker, nutrition lead at the BHF, told The Telegraph: “We encourage everyone to choose foods that can keep their gut microbiome healthy.
“The benefits are clear, and we are continuing to improve our understanding of how a gut-friendly diet may help our hearts.
“A lot of these products can contain high levels of salt or sugar though, so it is important to be aware of the potential drawbacks.
“By ensuring you check package labels for added salt and sugars, and eat each in moderation, you can make sure the risks do not outweigh the benefits for your heart health.”