### Dietitians Warn of Sneaky Foods that Sabotage Weight Loss Efforts
When it comes to losing weight, many people focus on avoiding obvious high-calorie foods like chips, pizza, and sweets. However, dietitians are warning that some seemingly healthy alternatives can also contribute to weight gain. According to a report by nutrition experts from the diet analyst website, Eat This Not That, certain foods can sabotage weight loss or weight maintenance plans by packing on the pounds without dieters even realizing it.
### Nuts: A Deceptively Caloric Snack
While nuts are often touted as a healthy snack option, they are actually packed with calories. It’s easy to consume a large quantity of nuts in a short amount of time, leading to excess calorie intake. Despite their nutritional value, moderation is key when it comes to including nuts in your diet. For example, a cup of almonds contains 826 calories, compared to only 156 calories in a bag of potato chips.
### Nut Butters: The Not-So-Healthy Fats
Nut butters, such as peanut butter, are often praised for their healthy fats. However, it’s easy to overindulge in these creamy spreads, leading to a significant calorie intake. Two tablespoons of peanut butter contain 188 calories, and it’s common to consume much more than that in one sitting, especially when paired with snacks like apples.
### Granola: A Calorie-Dense Breakfast Option
Granola is a popular breakfast choice, but it can be high in sugar and fat, contributing to weight gain. While the recommended serving size for granola is about 1 cup, many brands suggest smaller portion sizes to avoid excess calorie intake. For example, a serving of Nature’s Path Organic Gluten-Free Coconut and Cashew Butter Granola is only 1/3 cup, containing 150 calories. Consuming a full cup of granola can add up to 450 calories before adding milk.
### Low-Sugar Ice Creams: A Potential Pitfall
Low-sugar ice creams may seem like a healthier option, but studies suggest that artificial sweeteners in these products can trigger cravings for sweet foods, leading to overeating. When trying to satisfy a sweet craving with a lower-calorie alternative, individuals may end up consuming more to compensate for the reduced sugar content.
### Milk Alternatives: Watch Out for Added Fats and Sugars
While milk alternatives like nut milks can be suitable for those who are lactose intolerant, they may contain added fats and sugars to enhance flavor and texture. Some researchers have linked certain additives in these products to gut issues, and they can be higher in calories compared to cow’s milk.
### Gluten-Free Products: Not Always Lower in Calories
Many people opt for gluten-free products under the assumption that they are healthier than their gluten-containing counterparts. However, some gluten-free versions can be more calorically dense due to added sugars and fats used as substitutes for gluten. It’s essential to be mindful of portion sizes and overall calorie intake when choosing gluten-free options.
Original Story at www.dailymail.co.uk – 2024-03-19 15:21:06
