From Staff Writer
Dr. Jeremy London, a prominent cardiovascular surgeon from Savannah, Georgia, sees firsthand the devastating impact of heart disease—the world’s leading cause of death. Having spent years repairing damaged hearts and performing life-saving surgeries, Dr. London has a unique perspective on the long-term effects of poor lifestyle choices that contribute to heart disease.
As a professional who regularly operates on patients with clogged arteries and damaged blood vessels, Dr. London is well aware of how slowly these issues develop. “It’s a gradual process,” he explains. “Many of the conditions I treat stem from years of unhealthy habits, and those habits can ultimately lead to a surgeon’s table—my table,” he warns.
To avoid becoming a patient himself, Dr. London follows a set of rules to protect his own heart. These personal guidelines, shared with his followers on Instagram, highlight six crucial habits he avoids to maintain optimal heart health:
1. Alcohol-Based Mouthwash
Dr. London surprises many by advising against the use of alcohol-based mouthwashes, which are often marketed as being able to eliminate all germs. He explains that while these mouthwashes may kill harmful bacteria, they also wipe out beneficial bacteria that help produce nitric oxide—a compound that dilates blood vessels and regulates blood pressure. “By killing these bacteria, you could unintentionally raise your blood pressure,” Dr. London warns. Studies support his view, showing that such mouthwashes disrupt the oral microbiome, which can lead to hypertension.
2. Smoking and Vaping
Both smoking and vaping can severely damage blood vessels, leading to higher risks of heart attacks and strokes. Dr. London is firm in his belief that smoking is one of the most harmful choices a person can make for their health. “Nicotine narrows blood vessels, which raises blood pressure and accelerates atherosclerosis,” he explains. Vaping, which is also linked to harmful changes in blood vessel function, is another concern for Dr. London, particularly with research showing a heightened risk of heart failure in e-cigarette users.
3. Alcohol
Dr. London made the decision to cut alcohol from his life three years ago, a move he describes as transformative. “Alcohol is toxic to every cell in your body,” he says, pointing to research from the World Health Organization, which states that no level of alcohol consumption is considered safe for health. While some studies suggest small amounts of alcohol may have cardiovascular benefits, Dr. London firmly disagrees. “Even a single drink is a choice to put a toxic substance in your body,” he asserts, stressing that people must make their own informed decisions about their health.
4. Soft Drinks
Describing sugary soft drinks as “liquid death,” Dr. London is vocal about the dangers of consuming high-calorie, sugar-laden beverages. He explains that daily consumption of sugary drinks is directly linked to an increased risk of heart disease, regardless of physical activity levels. While sugar-free alternatives may be less harmful, he advises drinking water or tea instead for optimal health.
5. Refined Flour Products
Dr. London is not opposed to eating bread or pasta, as long as they are made from whole grains. Foods made with refined white flour, however, are stripped of key nutrients, including dietary fibre and B vitamins. Whole grains, on the other hand, offer important heart-health benefits, such as improved cholesterol levels. Choosing whole grains over refined flour products is an easy way to lower heart disease risk.
6. Ultra-Processed Foods
Dr. London is a strong advocate for avoiding ultra-processed foods, which are packed with added sugars, unhealthy fats, salt, and preservatives. Items such as cookies, chips, and pre-packaged snacks may have long shelf lives, but Dr. London warns that consuming them regularly can shorten your own.
“The longer the shelf life, the shorter your life,” he quips, encouraging people to focus on nutrient-dense, whole foods instead.
In line with his professional expertise, Dr. London stresses that a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle are key to longevity and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. He advises others to choose fresh, natural foods over ultra-processed alternatives and to be mindful of their overall lifestyle choices, particularly when it comes to the impact on heart health.
“Ultimately, your body is your responsibility,” Dr. London says. “Make informed decisions and take control of your health for the long term.”
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