Baked goods encompass a wide array of delicious treats ranging from bread and pastries to cookies and cakes. While many baked goods can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, it’s important to be aware of the potential health implications associated with certain types. Unhealthy baked goods often contain high levels of refined sugars, saturated fats, and processed ingredients. These ingredients, when consumed excessively, can contribute to health issues such as obesity, cardiovascular problems, and increased risk of diabetes.
We spoke with Lisa Richards, nutritionist and creator of the Candida Diet, and Jesse Feder, RD and CPT, to learn about two common baked goods that can be detrimental for your overall health. They revealed that pastry cakes and cookies are the ones to minimize.
Pastry Cakes
Pastry cakes, while undeniably delicious, often fall into the category of baked goods that can have negative implications for overall health when consumed in excess. These delectable treats are typically high in refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and calories.
"Pastry cakes are inflammatory and detrimental to gut health due to their high sugar and refined flour content. These ingredients contribute to rapid spikes in blood sugar, prompting the release of insulin and potentially causing chronic inflammation," Richards says.
She further adds, "The imbalanced gut microbiome resulting from a diet high in sugary and processed foods can lead to gastrointestinal issues and further inflammation. The trans fats often found in pastry cakes can exacerbate inflammation and negatively affect gut lining integrity," Richards reveals.
"Overall, regular consumption of pastry cakes can disrupt gut health, promote inflammation, and increase the risk of various health problems, emphasizing the importance of choosing more nutrient-dense options for both gut health and overall well-being," she notes.
Cookies
Many commercial cookies are laden with refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and often lack substantial nutritional value. Regular consumption of such cookies can contribute to weight gain, as they are often calorie-dense and may lead to overeating.
Feder says cookies are "typically high in fats, sugars, and calories. The high amount of calories in these products can lead to unwanted fat gain over time."
While enjoying an occasional cookie can be a delightful treat, moderation and opting for homemade versions with healthier ingredients can help strike a better balance between satisfying one's sweet tooth and maintaining overall well-being.
