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When trying to stick to a healthy and weight loss friendly diet, it can be easy to focus on what foods you are eating and think less about what toppings and sauces you are pairing with these foods. However, in doing so, you might be preventing your own progress.
Certain sauces might seem like a harmless way to add some flavor, but they can actually cause weight gain if you are not careful, especially if they are high in sugar and calories.
With that in mind, keep reading for the one sauce that practically guarantees weight gain.
Barbecue Sauce
When thinking about unhealthy sauces, many people assume if you skip the cream-based options, you should be fine. Unfortunately, the reality is less black and white.
Barbecue sauce, despite not being cream based, can pack in its fair share of calories. According to the Food Network, "Popular sauces average anywhere from 45 to 70 calories for a two-tablespoon serving."
That's not all. The article continues, "You’ll also find a hefty amount of sugar, about 12 to 17 grams per serving, plus 200 to 350 milligrams of sodium; that’s as high as 14 percent of your daily allotment."
Plus, some brands add high fructose corn syrup.
There's also a chance that your favorite bottle of BBQ sauce could contain caramel coloring and artificial preservatives.
The good news is that you can still enjoy BBQ sauce in moderation--or try your hand at a healthier homemade barbecue sauce recipe.
Check out this recipe for a low carb, sugar free BBQ sauce option (that still tastes great)! With a rating of 4.4/5 stars, those who have tried this recipe love it.
One commented, "I loved it! As other reviewers suggested I added unsweetened cocoa powder and baking soda to neutralize the acidity and it was perfect! Added 1 tbsp more of liquid smoke too. Thank you!"
So if you don't want to give up BBQ sauce altogether, don't worry! Try this instead for a more diet-friendly option.