Your Route to Real News

Five 'healthy' foods that might actually be stopping weight loss

02 June 2024 , 09:57
817     0
Smoothies might not be as good for weight loss as many think (Image: Woman drinking a fruit smoothie)
Smoothies might not be as good for weight loss as many think (Image: Woman drinking a fruit smoothie)

A nutritionist has issued a warning about five "healthy" foods that many dieters rely on - but could be undermining their weight loss efforts.

"It's a common misconception that all healthy foods are weight-loss friendly," said Guna Bilande of Weight Loss Riga. "While these foods offer significant nutritional benefits, their high-calorie content can sometimes work against your weight loss goals."

Guna highlighted that these foods might hinder weight loss, explaining that while they are not inherently unhealthy, they may not be the best choices for those looking to slim down. Despite being packed with essential nutrients, consuming them in large quantities can lead to unwanted weight gain or stall your weight loss progress.

Guna emphasised the importance of portion control and keeping an eye on your overall calorie intake, reports Bristol Live. "Healthy eating is about balance and moderation," she said. "These foods can and should be included in a balanced diet, but be aware of their caloric content and adjust your portions accordingly."

Avocados

Morrisons is slashing over 130 prices on its saver-products from today erideuiqtziqxkprwMorrisons is slashing over 130 prices on its saver-products from today

Avocados, brimming with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, are a favourite among health enthusiasts. However, their high-calorie content can be a double-edged sword.

"Avocados are nutrient-dense, but they are also calorie-dense," Guna said. "A single avocado can contain around 250 to 300 calories, which can add up quickly if you're not careful with portion sizes."

Olive oil

Extra virgin olive oil is lauded for its heart-friendly monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. Despite being a healthier fat choice, it's also packed with calories.

"Just one tablespoon of olive oil contains about 120 calories," Guna explained. "It's easy to overdo it when cooking or dressing salads, so it's crucial to measure your portions."

Nuts and nut butters

Nuts and their butters are packed with protein, fibre, and healthy fats. They're a handy snack and can be a fantastic addition to various dishes. However, they can be surprisingly high in calories.

"A handful of nuts can contain around 200 calories, and nut butters can have even more," Guna said. "Be mindful of how much you're consuming, especially if you're snacking straight from the jar."

Granola

Granola is often sold as a health food, brimming with whole grains, nuts, and seeds. However, many shop-bought granolas are crammed with added sugars and fats, resulting in a high-calorie product.

McDonald's unveils major menu change with new spicy item landing this weekMcDonald's unveils major menu change with new spicy item landing this week

"Granola can be a hidden calorie bomb," Guna warned. "Always check the labels for sugar content and portion sizes. Consider making your own granola at home to control the ingredients."

Smoothies

Smoothies can be a brilliant way to cram in fruits, vegetables, and other nutrients. But they can also be calorie-heavy, particularly when made with high-sugar fruits, full-fat dairy, and added sweeteners.

"Smoothies can easily become calorie traps," Guna warned. "Use low-sugar fruits, avoid adding extra sweeteners, and be cautious with the quantity of high-calorie ingredients like nut butters and seeds."

Rom Preston-Ellis

Print page

Comments:

comments powered by Disqus