Expert reveals five household items she has banned from her home

In an age where convenience often trumps nutrition, Dr Preethi Mrinalini is advocating for a return to kitchen basics.

The Chennai-based bariatric surgeon recently took to Instagram to reveal five common items she refuses to keep in her own home.

Her advice isn't about following fads; as she puts it: "Not out of fear, but out of science, long-term health impact, and what I’ve repeatedly seen in my patients."

Top of her "ban" list are ultra-processed ready-meals and refined vegetable oils. Dr Mrinalini warns that these products "contain inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids that disturb gut health" and "confuse your hunger hormones."

Even the humble plastic chopping board is under fire, with the surgeon suggesting a move to wood or bamboo.

She notes: "Every cut releases microplastics. Studies show these can enter your food and impact gut bacteria, hormones, and inflammation levels over time."

The doctor also targets excess sugar and "cheap" chocolates, which she describes as "cocoa-flavoured sugar blocks."

These can worsen acne and drive fatty liver disease. However, the message is one of empowerment rather than restriction.

By making small, intentional changes, the surgeon believes anyone can reclaim their wellbeing. "From a medical perspective, removing these five things alone can improve digestion, energy, skin health, and metabolic health more than most people realise," she concludes.

For those looking to feel better, her advice is simple: start replacing these items one at a time, and let your body reap the rewards of a cleaner, more natural environment.

This content serves informational purposes only and isn’t a replacement for professional medical advice.