This Is The Worst Ultra-Processed Food That Is Slowing Your Weight Loss Progress

Processed Meat

"One of the worst ultra-processed foods out there is likely to be processed meat," Dr. Cueva tells us. "This includes meats that have been smoked, cured, or salted, as well as those that come in packaged form, like hot dogs, sausages, and deli meats."

So, what makes these meats so terrible for your overall health and weight loss goals? The fat and salt content is mostly to blame. "Processed meat is high in unhealthy saturated fat and sodium, which can increase your risk of heart disease and other health problems. What's more, it is often high in calories, which can make it difficult to maintain a healthy weight if you eat these foods regularly," Cueva warns.

Luckily, not all meats come with these risks. There are tons of healthy options out there. "For healthier alternatives, opt for leaner, unprocessed meats like chicken or fish," Cueva suggests. You may also want to go with plant-based options like beans and lentils. As he notes, these alternatives are lower in calories and fat and even offer a great amount of fiber and other nutrients that can aid you on your weight loss journey. 

Overall, it's best to avoid all ultra-processed foods as much as possible if you want to lose weight—or even if you just want to lead a long, healthy life. To maintain a well-balanced diet, Cueva encourages readers to prioritize whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. "These will help you fill up on fewer calories, while also providing your body with important nutrients it needs to function properly," he concludes.