Doctor Shares: 5 Everyday Foods You Should Avoid At All Costs
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Gian T
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Navigating the grocery aisles can be a daunting task, especially when trying to make healthy choices. But what if some of the foods we commonly consume could pose serious health risks? Dr Jessica Kiss, a California-based physician, has shared her professional insights on the matter, revealing five everyday foods she would never eat. Her advice might just make you reconsider what's in your pantry.
1. Reheated Fried Rice: A Hidden Danger
First on Dr Kiss's list is reheated fried rice. While it might be a delicious leftover, Dr Kiss warns against reheating it due to the risk of Bacillus cereus – a bacteria that thrives when rice is left at room temperature and can survive even after reheating. This bacteria can cause food poisoning, and in severe cases, it can be fatal. The spores it produces are particularly resilient, making it a risky choice for a second serving. Dr Kiss suggests that if you must keep rice warm, do so in a rice cooker set to 'warm,' but never at room temperature.
2. Picnic Foods: Beware of the Danger Zone
The second no-go for Dr Kiss is any food sitting out during a picnic. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns against leaving food in 'the danger zone' – temperatures between 40°F and 140°F – for more than two hours, or one hour if the temperature is above 90°F. Bacteria can multiply rapidly in these conditions, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Dr Kiss advises eating picnic foods immediately or waiting until you can store and serve them safely.
3. Artificially Colored Foods: A Rainbow of Risks
Dr Kiss's third rule is to avoid foods that match the vibrant hues of her dyed pink and purple hair. She points out that food dyes can be harsh on your system and may lead to some colourful surprises in the bathroom. While she admits to the occasional indulgence, she generally steers clear of artificially coloured foods, suggesting that natural colours are a healthier and safer choice.
4. Dented Cans: A Can of Worms
The fourth item on Dr Kiss's list is anything from a dented can. Dents can compromise the integrity of the can's seal, potentially leading to botulism—a rare but serious illness caused by botulinum toxin. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this toxin can occur in improperly canned or fermented foods. Dr Kiss emphasises that it's not worth the risk, no matter the cost savings, and advises consumers to choose undamaged cans.
5. Grapefruit: A Bitter Pill to Swallow
Lastly, Dr Kiss cautions against eating grapefruit, especially for those on medication. Grapefruit can interact with a wide range of drugs, including certain anti-anxiety medications and blood pressure treatments. The FDA notes that grapefruit affects how medications are metabolised in the body, which can alter their effectiveness and lead to adverse effects. Dr Kiss recommends checking for potential drug interactions with grapefruit before consuming it.
In conclusion, Dr Kiss's advice sheds light on the potential dangers lurking in common foods. It reminds us that being informed and cautious about what we eat is crucial for our health. As seniors, it's especially important to be aware of these risks, as our bodies may be more susceptible to foodborne illnesses and medication interactions.
So, dear readers, take a moment to peek into your kitchen. Are any of these foods on Dr Kiss's list present? It might be time to rethink your pantry staples and make some changes for your health. And remember, when in doubt, consult with your healthcare provider about the best dietary choices for you.
Credit: TikTok
Have you ever experienced a food-related health scare? Do you have any tips for avoiding these common food pitfalls? Share your stories and advice in the comments below – your insights could help a fellow reader stay safe and healthy!
1. Reheated Fried Rice: A Hidden Danger
First on Dr Kiss's list is reheated fried rice. While it might be a delicious leftover, Dr Kiss warns against reheating it due to the risk of Bacillus cereus – a bacteria that thrives when rice is left at room temperature and can survive even after reheating. This bacteria can cause food poisoning, and in severe cases, it can be fatal. The spores it produces are particularly resilient, making it a risky choice for a second serving. Dr Kiss suggests that if you must keep rice warm, do so in a rice cooker set to 'warm,' but never at room temperature.
2. Picnic Foods: Beware of the Danger Zone
The second no-go for Dr Kiss is any food sitting out during a picnic. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns against leaving food in 'the danger zone' – temperatures between 40°F and 140°F – for more than two hours, or one hour if the temperature is above 90°F. Bacteria can multiply rapidly in these conditions, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Dr Kiss advises eating picnic foods immediately or waiting until you can store and serve them safely.
3. Artificially Colored Foods: A Rainbow of Risks
Dr Kiss's third rule is to avoid foods that match the vibrant hues of her dyed pink and purple hair. She points out that food dyes can be harsh on your system and may lead to some colourful surprises in the bathroom. While she admits to the occasional indulgence, she generally steers clear of artificially coloured foods, suggesting that natural colours are a healthier and safer choice.
4. Dented Cans: A Can of Worms
The fourth item on Dr Kiss's list is anything from a dented can. Dents can compromise the integrity of the can's seal, potentially leading to botulism—a rare but serious illness caused by botulinum toxin. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this toxin can occur in improperly canned or fermented foods. Dr Kiss emphasises that it's not worth the risk, no matter the cost savings, and advises consumers to choose undamaged cans.
5. Grapefruit: A Bitter Pill to Swallow
Lastly, Dr Kiss cautions against eating grapefruit, especially for those on medication. Grapefruit can interact with a wide range of drugs, including certain anti-anxiety medications and blood pressure treatments. The FDA notes that grapefruit affects how medications are metabolised in the body, which can alter their effectiveness and lead to adverse effects. Dr Kiss recommends checking for potential drug interactions with grapefruit before consuming it.
In conclusion, Dr Kiss's advice sheds light on the potential dangers lurking in common foods. It reminds us that being informed and cautious about what we eat is crucial for our health. As seniors, it's especially important to be aware of these risks, as our bodies may be more susceptible to foodborne illnesses and medication interactions.
So, dear readers, take a moment to peek into your kitchen. Are any of these foods on Dr Kiss's list present? It might be time to rethink your pantry staples and make some changes for your health. And remember, when in doubt, consult with your healthcare provider about the best dietary choices for you.
Credit: TikTok
Key Takeaways
- Dr Jessica Kiss, a California-based doctor, revealed five foods she would never eat due to health risks.
- She advises against reheating fried rice because of the bacteria Bacillus cereus, which can lead to serious food poisoning.
- The doctor also warns against eating food left out during a picnic due to the increased risk of foodborne illnesses in warmer temperatures.
- Additionally, she avoids foods with artificial food dye, dented cans that might contain botulinum toxin, and grapefruit due to its interaction with many medications.