What Cardiologists Avoid in Their Kitchens, and What to Use Instead

When it comes to experts’ advice, we listen loud and clear. This is especially true when it’s coming from cardiologists. Our heart is the center of our body; it keeps us ticking. With the increasing concern for heart disease, it’s no wonder we’re interested in finding ways to improve our body’s function. While many diet, lifestyle and medical changes can be made to ensure your body is functioning at its best, there’s commonly overlooked aspect you’re probably not thinking of: the kitchen items you use daily. 

I chatted with cardiologists two months ago, asking them what items they wouldn’t use in the kitchen and what they’d recommend patients replace them with. On the list were plastic containers, plastic cutting boards, nonstick pans and a few other suggested swaps. I know I am consciously looking to replace these essentials, but I’m also highly aware of my budget—I don’t want to spend a fortune on these things when I already have options on hand. To help with that, I gathered some Labor Day sale finds that are in line with what these doctors have recommended, from $7.

Cardiologist-Advised Swaps for Less at Amazon

Home Ec Glass Salt Shaker with Adjustable Pour Holes

Increased salt intake is connected to your blood pressure, which is also related to your heart health. When you have high blood pressure, your risk for heart disease and stroke goes up, so keeping your intake in check is ideal. Cardiologist Dr. Aaron Feingold, M.D., chair of cardiology at JFK University Medical Center, recommends using a salt shaker that allows you to easily pour and measure how much you’re adding to a meal. This highly rated option is made from glass and has an adjustable pour spout that allows you to easily dispense salt into a measuring spoon.

Calphalon Premier Stainless Steel 5-Quart Sauté Pan

Dr. Feingold also mentioned the issue of nonstick cookware, as many contain PTFE and PFOA (also known as forever chemicals) coatings that “can release toxic fumes and particles that may contribute to cardiovascular inflammation.” In lieu of your nonstick pan, it might pay to invest in a stainless steel pan. Not only are they safe and versatile, but they’ll likely last longer in your collection. We’re big fans of the Calphalon stainless steel cookware line and found this useful sauté pan for less. It heats well, looks sleek and comes with a nifty lid. With its oven-safe capabilities, this is great for one-pan dinners and casseroles alike.

Kikcoin Extra Large Bamboo Cutting Boards, Set of 3

Plastic cutting boards have been scientifically proven to release microplastics, an unfortunate result of the knife’s blade on the more delicate surface. “Early research suggests [microplastics] can be harmful at the cellular level,” said Dr. Elizabeth Klodas, M.D. F.A.C.C., preventive cardiologist and creator of Step One Foods. Because of that, I’ve promptly switched to wooden cutting boards. These Kikcoin bamboo boards are nice and thick, measuring roughly 1 inch high. I love the chic checker design because it makes the boards look more expensive. For $16 a board, I think it’s a fair price for a daily essential.

FineDine Glass Storage Containers with Lids, Set of 12

Plastic containers are an issue for the same reason as plastic cutting boards, in addition to the fact that they can also contain forever chemicals like BPA. “Heating food in plastic can release PFAs—chemicals linked to heart disease, certain cancers, and immune system dysfunction. I use glass containers instead,” said Dr. Klodas. I also use glass containers to minimize this risk. These are a great option on sale for a fair price. They come in a range of sizes, from 13.5 to 35 ounces and include airtight latching lids to keep your food fresh.

Longzon 4-in-1 Knife Sharpener

Another recommendation from Dr. Klodas? Ditch your dull knives. Cooking food at home using whole ingredients is excellent for heart health, and nothing makes that process more discouraging than a knife that doesn’t work. If it’s not too far gone, try sharpening it with a fuss-free sharpener like this one from Longzon. Since it’s manual, all you need to do is swipe your chef’s knives through the slots to bring them back to life and get them ready to handle tomatoes and butternut squashes with ease.

Global 8-Inch Chef’s Knife

If you need a replacement knife, one of our favorite models is on sale. This Global knife is lightweight, chic and fairly priced.  We find it especially great for folks with smaller hands, since its airy design is easier to handle (pun intended). Because it’s a Japanese-style knife, the blade is razor sharp yet thin, making it easy to maneuver tougher ingredients, like sweet potatoes and squash.

Emeril Lagasse Dual-Zone Air Fryer Oven Combo

We know that diets higher in saturated and trans fats can negatively impact your heart health. One way to get around that is by using less of it—the invention of toaster oven air fryers has made that easier than ever, and Dr. Feingold recommends them. We found this Emeril Lagasse oven for 33% off today. The generous 25-quart space means you won’t be limited in the recipes you can create. It also comes with a dual-zone option, meaning you can divide the oven into two separate cooking spaces with their own settings. Bam!