Desserts are a delightful treat for many, but they can pose challenges for those focused on weight loss. While they satisfy a sweet craving, many traditional desserts are high in refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and empty calories. Overindulging in such treats can lead to inflammation, blood sugar spikes, and even hinder weight loss efforts.
Inflammation is often triggered by processed ingredients, artificial additives, and excess sugar, which can disrupt the body’s natural processes. Similarly, desserts that cause rapid blood sugar spikes may result in energy crashes and increased fat storage over time. Eating these during the evening can make matters worse as the body tries to prepare for rest.
We checked in with our health experts to discover two sweet treats you should steer clear of because they can cause blood sugar spikes and inflammation. According to them, pies and sugar cookies are the ones to avoid. Read on to learn more.
1. Pies
Some pies can contain trans fat or high levels of saturated fats from butter, shortening, or processed fillings.
Also, the body prioritizes rest and repair during the evening, so consuming heavy, sugary foods like pies can strain this function.
"Pie crust is made with a ton of butter, which makes it not the friendliest option for those who are trying to lose weight. Pie crust is also made of flour, which breaks down into sugar, and the filling is often very sweet, which may contribute to blood sugar spikes," says Jeanette Giacinto, MS, RD, CDN, registered dietitian and nutrition consultant for Bodybuilding Reviews.
2. Sugar Cookies
Sugar cookies provide little fiber, protein, or healthy fats, which are essential for balancing blood sugar levels. Without these nutrients, the sugars and carbs in the cookies are absorbed even faster, amplifying their inflammatory potential.
However, moderation is key, as Giacinto notes that once in a while, a sugar cookie won't hurt. "Most sugar cookies are at least 100 calories each and are made with butter or oil, which is not innately terrible if you don’t overdo it," warns Giacinto.
Read more here to discover some of the best desserts that are actually healthy and can even aid in weight loss!
