5 foods top US heart doctor will never give his kids and why you shouldn't either

Dr. Sanjay D. Bhojraj, an interventional cardiologist in the USA with over two decades of clinical experience, knows firsthand how early lifestyle choices — especially around food — can influence long-term heart health. Through his work in both traditional cardiology and functional medicine, he believes that many chronic illnesses begin with poor dietary patterns that often start in childhood. As a preventive measure, there are certain food items he consciously avoids serving his children — not out of fear, but with a long-term vision for health and well-being.

According to CNBC, here are five foods Dr. Bhojraj does not allow in his household, and the broader reasons why these choices might matter for others too.

Microwave Popcorn: Processed Convenience With Long-Term Trade-Offs
Although microwave popcorn is a favorite for many families because of its ease and popularity during movie nights, Dr. Bhojraj does not offer it to his kids. While the product is marketed as a snack, it typically contains added flavoring agents, preservatives, and processed oils. It's a highly manufactured item, and for a cardiologist who values whole-food nutrition, this kind of heavily altered product doesn't align with his preventive health approach. Avoiding such packaged items may reduce unnecessary exposure to synthetic ingredients often found in ultra-processed foods.

Flavored Yogurts: Dessert Masquerading as Health Food
Yogurt is often assumed to be healthy, but Dr. Bhojraj draws a line when it comes to the flavored varieties. These products, commonly aimed at children, usually contain high amounts of added sugars, artificial flavors, and thickeners. While yogurt itself can be nutritious, the sweetened versions tend to deliver more sugar than benefit. In the context of lifelong health, limiting early sugar exposure can help reduce the risk of developing metabolic issues. Dr. Bhojraj’s decision to exclude these from his children’s diets reflects a broader commitment to cutting back on unnecessary sugar in everyday meals.

Processed Meats: A Staple Best Left Off the Plate
From hot dogs to cold cuts, processed meats are completely avoided by Dr. Bhojraj when it comes to feeding his children. These products are often high in sodium, preservatives, and additives used to enhance shelf life and flavor. Over time, regular consumption of such items has been widely associated with poor dietary patterns. His decision signals concern not just about the ingredients themselves but about establishing healthier alternatives — such as fresh, unprocessed sources of protein — from a young age.

Sugary Cereals and Drinks: Marketing vs. Nutrition
Breakfast cereals and sugary drinks are commonly marketed toward children, but Dr. Bhojraj excludes both from his family's diet. These products tend to be rich in refined sugars while offering minimal nutritional value. For a growing child, starting the day with excess sugar can create unstable energy levels and may encourage a preference for sweet tastes over time. By keeping these out of the household, Dr. Bhojraj reinforces a pattern of eating that focuses on balanced meals and whole foods, rather than processed convenience.

Deep Fried Foods: A Habit He Doesn’t Want to Start Early
While fried foods like fries, nuggets, and chips are easy go-to snacks for many families, they are not part of Dr. Bhojraj’s pantry. These items are typically prepared in processed oils and are calorie-dense without providing essential nutrients. More importantly, they are often consumed out of habit rather than hunger. By avoiding them, Dr. Bhojraj not only limits empty calories but also discourages the formation of food habits that may become difficult to reverse later in life.

Who Is Dr. Sanjay D. Bhojraj?
Dr. Sanjay D. Bhojraj is an experienced interventional cardiologist and a certified practitioner in functional medicine. With over 20 years of clinical experience, he has treated thousands of heart patients and is known for integrating conventional medical expertise with holistic, lifestyle-based approaches to prevention. He is also the founder of Well12, a 12-week wellness program that focuses on long-term health through evidence-based changes in diet, sleep, breathwork, and stress management.