A cardiologist has warned that five drinks marketed as healthy are actually detrimental to heart health. Dr Francesco Lo Monaco, a private cardiologist in London, said the problem is hiding in plain sight: “Some of the most damaging things people put in their bodies come in bottles marketed as healthy.” He identified diet fizzy drinks, sports drinks, detox teas, kombucha, and canned coffee as beverages he would avoid.
Diet Fizzy Drinks
Dr Lo Monaco cautioned that diet soft drinks are not a safe alternative. “Observational studies have linked high consumption of diet soft drinks with increased rates of diabetes and cardiovascular disease,” he said. “They also keep your taste set on very sweet flavours, which makes healthier swaps much harder.”
Sports Drinks
Sports drinks, often promoted for performance, are unnecessary for most people. “For most people, they’re just sugary soft drinks in sports branding, adding calories you never needed to replace in the first place,” Dr Lo Monaco explained. He advised that water is sufficient for normal workouts, though intense exercise may warrant a sugar-free electrolyte drink once a day.
Detox Teas
Detox teas are another misleading product. “Often a mix of strong caffeine, laxatives and herbs, these products come with side effects but no shortcut to real, lasting heart health,” he said. “They can also delay people from seeking proper medical advice when something is genuinely wrong.”
Kombucha
Kombucha, a fermented tea, can contain high sugar levels. “Some commercial kombuchas contain substantial added sugar, so it's worth checking the nutrition label,” Dr Lo Monaco noted. “If you choose them, look for low‑sugar brands and treat them as an occasional drink, not a daily tonic.”
Canned Coffee
Canned coffee drinks often pack excessive sugar and calories. “Coffee itself is fine but some pre-made versions add syrups, cream and soft‑drink‑level sugar on top of your usual daily calories,” he said. “Over years, that habit can show up as weight gain, higher triglycerides and worse blood sugar control.”
