Overview
- The British Heart Foundation, which issued new guidance Friday, says added salt and sugar in kimchi, kombucha and smoothies can undercut gut benefits and strain the heart.
- Fermented staples such as kimchi and sauerkraut often carry high salt loads that can drive up blood pressure with frequent or large servings.
- Some kombucha sold as a healthier swap for soda contains added sugar that chips away at any heart-health gain.
- Added sugars in flavored yogurts and blended fruit smoothies can spike blood sugar and promote weight gain, which raises heart attack and stroke risk.
- The guidance is advisory and widely reported by UK outlets, which highlight moderation and smart product choices as research on gut–heart links continues.