It is normal for an average adult to gain at least one pound each year. While this may not seem like much, over time, it can lead to a lot of extra weight or even serious health issues. The food we eat and how much we eat is directly related to the amount of weight we gain over the years. For those who are looking to lose weight or simply start eating healthier, the first changes that are made are often to the diet. There are many foods that are linked to gaining weight that can result in weight loss just by cutting them out of your regular diet. But it may surprise you that there are actually items that seem healthy that are the worst foods to eat when trying to lose weight.
What are the worst vegetables for weight loss?
Vegetables are an important part of any healthy lifestyle, and fresh veggies in particular are among the best foods for weight loss. That said, there are some that can be counterproductive when you are trying to lose weight. Although veggies are not the worst foods for weight loss, there are a few that can derail your weight loss efforts. Canned vegetables of any sort should be avoided, they are low in nutrients and very high in sodium. Onions are also bad for those looking to lose weight. They are flavorful, but also extremely high in calories when compared with other fresh vegetables.
Worst Foods for Weight Loss
1. Canned Soda & Designer Drinks
Canned sodas and other bottled drinks are full of concentrated sugars that will eventually transform into fat in the body. Even drinks that are labeled as being diet or low in sugar are still filled with unhealthy ingredients that will keep you from reaching your weight loss goals.
Nutrition Info Per Serving:
- Calories: 180-300
- Carbohydrates: 60g-85g
See also: Common Keto Mistakes
2. Processed Fruit Juice
Fruit juice may seem like an innocent item to keep in stock, but instead of loading your body with vital nutrients, you are getting buckets of sugar instead. The majority of processed fruit juices and cocktails are loaded down with corn syrup and artificial sweeteners that contribute to weight gain as much as any fast food meal. Switch out the fruit juice for some fresh, whole low-carb fruits instead.
Nutrition Info Per Serving:
- Calories: 110-260
- Carbohydrates: 19g-45g
3. White Bread
You may think a sandwich or slice of toast is harmless but white bread mead with refined flour and added sugar can knock you off your diet track instantly. While white bread may be low in fat, it is high in sugar. A better alternative is brown whole grain bread or pita bread as an alternative.
Nutrition Info Per 100 Grams:
- Calories: 265
- Carbohydrates: 48g
4. Granola Bars/Energy Bars
It may surprise you to know that common health foods can actually be bad for your diet. Granola bars and energy bars are packed with nutrients and fiber, but also with carbs and sugar. They are great for fit athletes who need the extra calories to fuel their performance, but for most, it’s just going to prevent proper weight loss.
Nutrition Info Per 100 Grams:
- Calories: 130-250
- Carbohydrates: 18g-40g
See also: Keto Vegetables List
5. Dehydrated Fruit
Dried fruit is a great way to get in some extra nutrients, but also an easy way to gain weight. Most dried fruit sold in the grocery store contains added sugar for flavor in addition to preservatives. While dried fruit is better than candy or other processed treats, opting for sugar-free or even fresh fruit is a better option
Nutrition Info Per 100 Grams:
- Calories: 300-500
- Carbohydrates: 80g-175g
6. Flavored Yogurt
Yogurt is an excellent source of calcium and a great source of healthy fat as well. It is important to choose the right type of yogurt if your goal is to lose weight, however. Flavored and sweetened yogurts are full of sugar, starches, and excess carbs that can add to your waistline instead of making it smaller. Instead, stick to plain yogurt, curds, and Greek yogurt that is unflavored instead.
Nutrition Info Per 100 Grams:
- Calories: 80- 130
- Carbohydrates: 15g-30g
7. Processed Deli Meat
Making a fresh sandwich at home is much healthier than picking up a cholesterol-filled meal at the drive-through. That being said, choosing the right meat for your sandwich is critical. Canned, smoked, dried, and even some sliced cured meats should all be avoided. They are high in calories and in salt, both of which are bad for dieting.
Nutrition Info Per 100 Grams:
- Calories: 220-208
- Carbohydrates: 3.8g-5g
8. Processed Baked Goods
Most baked goods are delicious and wholesome in terms of how they make us feel, but they are some of the worst foods when it comes to weight loss. They are full of carbs, sugar, and trans fats that can all contribute to excessive weight gain. Instead, opt for keto-friendly baked goods and naturally sweet snacks that are made from whole grains.
Nutrition Info Per 100 Grams:
- Calories: 150-425
- Carbohydrates: 40g-120g
9. Fatty Red Meats
A lot of diets focus on cutting out sugars and carbs, but it is still important to pay attention to the quality of meat you add to your meal plans. Fatty meats are high in calories and convert directly into sugar in the body. This can lead to weight gain and even put excess strain on the heart. Instead, look for leaner meats, seafood, and organic meat options for a better chance of reaching your weight loss goals.
Nutrition Info Per 100 Grams:
- Calories: 300+
- Carbohydrates: 1g-5g
10. Alcohol
Although most people don’t turn to alcohol as a way to lose weight, more often than not its effects on weight gain are overlooked. Beer and many other types of alcohol are rich in sugars and carbs that can thicken your waistline quicker than a double cheeseburger. Limit your drinks to once a week and opt for wine instead of beer or hard liquor.
Nutrition Info Per 100 Grams:
- Calories: 100-380
- Carbohydrates: 3g-8g
Our Thoughts on The Worst Weight Loss Foods
Now that you know some of the worst foods to eat for weight loss, we hope that you can make healthier choices that will allow you to reach your fitness goals. No matter what you eat, it is important to always partake in moderation and pair a balanced diet with physical activity.
