Ever wondered what the people who perform life-saving heart surgeries eat to protect their own hearts? It turns out, the doctors who see the effects of poor diet and lifestyle choices firsthand tend to follow surprisingly consistent habits
Heart Surgeon Tips
We dove into the routines of top cardiothoracic surgeons and heart health experts to uncover what ends up on their plates—and what never does.
🥗 They Load Up on These “Heart Hero” Foods
Heart surgeons are big on foods that naturally reduce inflammation and support blood vessel health. Expect to see a lot of:
Fatty fish like salmon or sardines – rich in omega-3s that help keep arteries clear.
Olive oil – used daily for cooking or drizzling. It's the Mediterranean secret sauce.
Berries – especially blueberries, packed with antioxidants that protect artery walls.
Leafy greens – not just for salads; surgeons sneak spinach or kale into smoothies too.
Nuts – almonds and walnuts in particular are surgeon favorites for a midday crunch.
🚫 What They Steer Clear Of
This is where things get interesting. Heart surgeons are laser-focused on avoiding a few key things:
Processed meats – bacon, deli meat, and sausages are high in sodium and nitrates.
Refined carbs – white bread and sugar-heavy foods spike blood sugar and trigger inflammation.
Trans fats – often hiding in margarine, packaged snacks, and fast food.
Sugary drinks – including fruit juice. Yes, even “healthy” juices are out.
Red meat – many surgeons limit or avoid it entirely, favoring plant-based protein instead.
One surgeon even said: “If it comes in a box and has more than five ingredients, I don’t eat it.”
☕️ Coffee? Alcohol? The Gray Areas…
Surprisingly, most heart surgeons do drink coffee—but in moderation and usually black, without sugar or creamers. Red wine in small amounts gets a cautious green light due to potential heart benefits, but many choose to skip alcohol altogether to minimize risk.
👀 A Simple Rule Most Follow
Many heart surgeons follow a variation of this rule:
“Eat like your life depends on it—because it does.”
They eat mostly whole foods, shop the perimeter of the grocery store, and prioritize home cooking. It’s not about perfection—just consistent, smart choices.