If you are from North Karnataka, you probably know how hard it is to resist a hot, crispy mirchi bajji with a cup of tea. Some people enjoy it occasionally, while others may crave it several times a week.

But is your favourite bajji safe for your heart?

As a Cardiologist in Hubli and Heart Specialist in Hubli, I want to share a recent experience that made me think about this popular snack from a heart-health perspective.

 

Even I Couldn't Resist a Bajji!

Recently, while travelling to Srisailam, we stopped at a roadside tea stall for tea. I saw mirchi bajji being prepared and, just like many others, I could not resist the craving.

I had one.

But while eating it, I started thinking:

What oil are they using? And how many times has that oil already been reused?

This is something we may not think about when we are simply enjoying the taste.

 

The Concern With Reused Cooking Oil

Cooking oil that is repeatedly heated can undergo chemical changes and produce oxidation and other degradation products. Under certain conditions, repeated heating can also contribute to the formation of trans fatty acids.

Trans fatty acids are harmful to cardiovascular health and regular consumption can negatively affect cholesterol and increase the risk of heart disease.

This does not mean that one bajji will harm your heart. The concern is when deep-fried foods prepared using repeatedly heated oil become a regular habit.

 

My Advice: Enjoy It, But Be Mindful

I am not saying you can never eat mirchi bajji. I enjoy it too!

But if you regularly eat roadside bajji, pakoda or other deep-fried snacks, consider preparing them at home instead.

At home, you can control the oil, ingredients, salt and portion size. Groundnut oil can be used as part of a balanced diet, while repeatedly reusing cooking oil for deep frying should be avoided.

 

Your Heart Looks at Your Overall Lifestyle

Heart health is not determined by one food. Your blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, physical activity, body weight, smoking habits, family history and overall diet all matter.

So, you do not have to completely give up the foods you love. Enjoy them occasionally and make healthier choices more often.

 

As a Heart Specialist in Hubli, my simple advice is:

If you crave mirchi bajji, try making it at home, avoid repeatedly reused oil, and don't make deep-fried snacks a regular habit.

And if you have heart-health concerns or risk factors, consult a Cardiologist in Hubli. Patients who require specialised procedures may also be evaluated by Interventional Cardiologists in Hubli, depending on their condition.

 

CTA

Have questions about your heart health?
If you have concerns about your heart, cholesterol, blood pressure, or other cardiovascular risk factors, consult a qualified Cardiologist in Hubli for personalised medical advice.

Dr. Palled Super Speciality Clinic for Endocrine and Cardiology Service
📞 9346412715
✉️ spdocsantosh@gmail.com
📍 1st Floor, Gundi Plaza, Plot No. 7, Gokul Road, Above KVG Bank, Apoorva Nagar, Manjunath Nagar, Hubballi, Karnataka – 580030
 

Take care of your heart, and enjoy your food mindfully.