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When you’re trying to lose weight, it is imperative that you steer clear of any foods that can get in the way of your diet. These can include many types of foods, but the most common offenders are carbs, sugars and certain types of fats. While there is no doubt that you should invest time and energy into planning and preparing nutritious, well-balanced meals, you should also pay the same amount of attention to getting rid of foods that might tempt you to stray from your healthy-eating plans. And some of these foods are sitting in your pantry right now.
Packaged Snacks
Pre-made packaged snacks, particularly cookies, breads or brownies, are typically higher in both carbs and sugar than the same foods would be if you made them from scratch. This is an obvious area that you can cut out from your diet and save yourself the extra calories.
Breakfast Cereals
High-sugar breakfast cereals are one of the worst foods you can eat. In the mornings, your body needs a good boost of protein and vitamins to get an energized start for the rest of your day. Eating sugary foods instead can put you at risk of slowing your metabolism and gaining weight.
Granola Bars
Though granola bars are a seemingly healthy snack, beware of granola bars, which typically contain unnecessary levels of sugars and carbs to give them their addictive flavor. Instead, make your own granola snack by mixing plain granola with nuts or dark chocolate for the same taste with less sugar.
Canned Soup
The same idea goes for canned soup. Homemade soup is one of the healthiest types of meals you can make, though soup from a can often contains high levels of sodium to keep the food preserved and flavorful. Skip the salt and make soup from scratch.
