1. Sugary Pastries
Starting your day with a sugary pastry like a danish or a donut may taste delicious, but it can have serious consequences for your health and your weight.
Dietitian Dana Ellis Hunnes says that "ultra-processed carbohydrates that are frequently found in packaged foods such as pastries, think Pop-Tarts," are "the least healthy type of carbohydrate to eat." This is because they contain tons of calories that do absolutely nothing for your health. Hunnes warns that they provide "no nutritional benefit; they are often devoid of vitamins and minerals, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds." Yikes!
When you consume all of those calories without nourishing your body, your metabolism will take a turn for the worse.
2. Creamy Sauces and Dressings
Ranch, Thousand Island, Alfredo sauce, and Caesar dressings might make your salad or pasta more enjoyable, but they can also turn a healthy meal into a calorie bomb.
Gervacio explains, "They are high in saturated fats and sugars that contribute to a lot of calories. Mayonnaise, cream, oils (often vegetable or soybean oil), sugar, and high-fructose corn syrup are some of the many ingredients that add up to calories."
For a healthier option, she recommends vinaigrette dressings made with olive oil and vinegar or yogurt-based dressings with fresh herbs and spices.
3. Flavored Yogurt
While yogurt is often perceived as a healthy choice, flavored ones often come laden with added sugars and artificial sweeteners, contributing to increased calorie intake and potential weight gain, especially around the abdominal area.
Excess sugar consumption is linked to insulin resistance and inflammation, key factors in the storage of visceral fat.
Greenwood says, "Flavored yogurts are often high in added sugars, which can contribute to visceral fat accumulation. In addition, they may be lower in protein and healthy fats than plain yogurts, which can make them less satiating and more likely to lead to overeating."
Opting for plain, unsweetened yogurt and adding natural flavorings like fresh fruits or a drizzle of honey allows you to enjoy the nutritional benefits of yogurt without the detrimental effects of added sugars.