A Turkish cardiologist is urging consumers to look beyond wellness trends, warning that functional beverages such as matcha drinks and protein beverages are not automatically heart-healthy simply because they are marketed as nutritious.
Functional beverages have gained popularity among health-conscious consumers, but cardiologist Dr. Mehmet Burak Özen says products labeled as “healthy” should not be assumed to benefit cardiovascular health. He advises consumers to carefully review ingredient lists, particularly for added sugar, sodium, caffeine, and calorie content, before making purchasing decisions.
Functional beverages marketed as healthy alternatives—including matcha drinks and protein beverages—should be consumed with caution rather than based on social media trends, according to Dr. Mehmet Burak Özen, a cardiologist at Manisa City Hospital.
Dr. Özen said that the growing popularity of these products has created the misconception that all beverages carrying a “healthy” label are automatically beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Not every “healthy” product is heart-friendly
According to the cardiologist, nutritional value depends on the overall composition of a product rather than its marketing claims. Some commercially available matcha beverages and protein drinks may contain significant amounts of added sugar, sodium, saturated fat, or stimulants that are unsuitable for people with cardiovascular disease or certain chronic conditions.
He encouraged consumers to examine nutrition labels and ingredient lists instead of relying solely on promotional messages or online health trends.
Moderation remains essential
Dr. Özen noted that balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and avoiding tobacco remain the cornerstones of cardiovascular health. While some functional beverages may fit into a healthy diet, they should not replace evidence-based dietary recommendations or be viewed as miracle products.
Summarizing his advice, he said, “The heart loves science, not fashion.”
Why It Matters
The growing market for functional beverages reflects increasing consumer interest in health and wellness, but marketing claims do not always reflect nutritional quality. Experts say evidence-based dietary choices and careful label reading remain essential for protecting long-term cardiovascular health.
Sources:Anadolu Agency, Manisa City Hospital
Compiled by: MedTurkiye360com GPT
