Everyone has foods they steer clear of, but for most of us, it’s usually due to taste, texture, or personal preference. However, Dr. Jessica Kiss recently took to TikTok to reveal five foods she would never eat—not because they’re high-calorie or fattening, but because they pose serious health risks. Her insights emphasize the importance of informed food choices and their impact on well-being.
Dr. Jessica Kiss, also known as @askdrmom on TikTok, is a well-respected medical professional known for sharing wellness tips and health advice on her social media platforms. Emphasizing preventive care and a holistic approach, Dr. Kiss encourages making thoughtful dietary decisions. In her latest video, she discussed five foods she actively avoids—not for reasons like weight gain, but due to potential health hazards.
In a recent TikTok video, Dr. Kiss listed five foods that she believes people should be cautious about. These foods may not just cause minor health issues but could pose immediate health risks.
@askdrmom I have more. But these are my big ones. For sure share this list with a friend! #5things #doctorlife #sickday #fall2024 #fallfood #momlife ♬ Little Things – Tiqta
1. Reheated Fried Rice
Dr. Kiss warns about the dangers of reheated fried rice, highlighting B. cereus bacteria, which can multiply and form harmful spores when rice is left at room temperature. Reheating may not fully eliminate these spores, making it a health hazard. To minimize risk, she advises consuming rice freshly cooked or using a rice cooker to prevent bacterial contamination.
“B. cereus, a type of bacteria, emerges when boiled rice is left at room temperature for a while, and reheating it inefficiently can reactivate spores,” she explained. “You need to kill both the bacteria and the spores, which microwaving often doesn’t do—better to avoid it.”
2. Picnic Foods
Dr. Kiss recommends avoiding picnic foods that have been left out for extended periods, as fluctuating temperatures increase the risk of foodborne illnesses. She suggests steering clear of foods that have been sitting out to prevent food poisoning and related health concerns.
“I’d rather be hungry than eat food that’s been sitting out,” she shared. “The risk of foodborne illness is too high, especially after holiday weekends when we see many cases of food poisoning.”
3. Foods with Artificial Colorings
Dr. Kiss advises against consuming foods with artificial colorings, noting the possible health risks linked to food dyes often used in processed foods. She suggests choosing natural, unprocessed foods as they’re gentler on the digestive system and better for overall health.
4. Food from Dented Cans
Warning about the hazards of dented cans, Dr. Kiss explains that dents can allow air and moisture to enter, creating a risk for botulism—a serious illness that can lead to muscle paralysis or even death. Avoiding dented cans can reduce the likelihood of exposure to harmful bacteria and toxins.
“If a can is dented, and I didn’t see it happen, I’m concerned about botulism,” she stated.
5. Grapefruit
Dr. Kiss cautions against grapefruit because of its potential interactions with many medications. Grapefruit can interfere with how the body processes certain drugs, leading to altered effects. She advises consulting with healthcare providers about grapefruit’s impact on specific medications.
“Grapefruit interacts with numerous medications, so always check to ensure it won’t interfere with your treatment,” she explained.
Dr. Jessica Kiss’s advice serves as a powerful reminder of the link between food choices and health. By staying mindful of what we eat and opting for safer, unprocessed alternatives, we can make choices that support our well-being. Following Dr. Kiss’s recommendations may help us reduce health risks and lead a healthier lifestyle.