José Abellán, cardiologist: "Microwaved packaging increases the transfer of microplastics."

Clinical and interventional cardiology specialist José Abellán, known for his outreach work on social media, explained on the Sr Wolf podcast that heating food in plastic containers , such as the classic rice or quinoa cups that are common in the diet of many Spaniards, generates a transfer of harmful particles.

"We know that heating these containers in the microwave increases the microplastics in food," he says. Although there are no conclusive studies yet directly linking it to a higher risk of heart attack, the Murcia-born doctor emphasizes that it's "reasonable to think it's not healthy." This is especially worrying for young people with little time to cook, who opt for pre-cooked, ready-to-heat meals .

Convenience has gained ground over health , and that can take its toll. Abellán proposes a diet based on natural products that "don't need a label." Whole grain foods, legumes, fruits, vegetables, and unprocessed meats, he says, make up 95% of an ideal diet. In contrast, ultra-processed foods—cheaper but much more harmful—are associated with multiple diseases, including cardiovascular disease.

"Our healthcare system cures diseases, but success lies in preventing them," the cardiologist insists. To achieve this, not only what we eat is essential, but also how we live. In his presentation, Abellán reviews the pillars of good cardiovascular health: daily exercise —including strength training—exposure to sunlight, sleeping between 7 and 9 hours, and, above all, nurturing our social relationships. "We are social beings, and connecting with others reduces our stress," he adds.

Another of the podcast's star topics was tobacco, which the doctor described as "a brutal and devastating toxin." Based on his experience in cardiac intervention rooms, the majority of heart attack patients are smokers. The most alarming aspect: the rise in smoking among young women. For those who believe vaping is a safe alternative, Abellán issues a clear warning: "It's less harmful than tobacco, but more harmful than not vaping."

Regarding modern habits, the professional delivers a direct message: "We live disconnected from our biology." From exposure to white light at night to an obsession with productivity, chronic stress has become one of the heart's greatest enemies. "Our brain doesn't distinguish between a lion chasing you and not making ends meet," he clearly points out. And it's this constant activation that slowly deteriorates us.

And yes, there was also room to talk about sex and coffee. In a relaxed tone, the doctor acknowledged that sex, although healthy, is no substitute for physical exercise in terms of calorie expenditure. Regarding coffee, he surprised everyone with a surprising fact: drunk in the morning, in moderate doses, it can be beneficial for cardiovascular health. "Up to five cups a day can be safe," he said, clarifying that anything after midday can negatively affect sleep.