Did you know that some common foods you eat regularly could be silently damaging your health goals? Let’s uncover the culprits in this video.
Maintaining a healthy diet is essential for overall well-being and longevity. However, with the plethora of food options available today, it’s easy to fall into the trap of consuming items that may be detrimental to our health. Here are five foods that we advise you to avoid for optimal health.
1. Trans Fats
Trans fats are artificially created fats found in partially hydrogenated oils. They are bad news for your heart, raising bad cholesterol levels (LDL) while lowering good cholesterol (HDL). This significantly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Baked items, processed snacks, and fried foods are common sources of trans fats. Always check your food labels and avoid products containing partially hydrogenated oils.
About me
Prashanth Cheruku
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I am the founder of this platform & a qualified Food Technologist. I have more than 10 years of Research & content creation experience in the field of Food Science.
I hold a Master of Technology degree in Food Process Engineering from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur.
2. Sugary Drinks
Sugary beverages like sodas, energy drinks, and sweetened fruit juices are loaded with empty calories and a high amount of sugar. Consuming these drinks regularly can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Opt for water, herbal teas, or infused water with fresh fruits for a healthier alternative.
3. Processed Meats
Processed meats such as bacon, sausage, deli meats, and hot dogs are often high in sodium, saturated fats, and preservatives like benzoates, nitrates, and sulphites. Eating these regularly could put you at an increased risk of heart disease, certain cancers, and other health issues. Choose lean cuts of unprocessed meats or plant-based protein sources like beans, lentils, and tofu for a healthier protein option.
4. White Bread
White bread is made from refined grains, which have been stripped of their fibre and nutrients during processing. This results in a product with a high glycaemic index, causing rapid spikes in blood sugar levels and promoting insulin resistance over time. Opt for whole grain bread or other whole grain options like quinoa, brown rice, or oats for a more nutritious choice that provides sustained energy and essential nutrients.
5. Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners like aspartame, sucralose, and saccharin are commonly used as sugar substitutes in diet sodas, sugar-free candies, and other “diet” or “low-calorie” products. While marketed as healthier alternatives to sugar, research suggests that artificial sweeteners may disrupt gut bacteria, increase cravings for sweet foods, and even lead to weight gain. It’s best to limit or avoid artificial sweeteners altogether and opt for natural sweeteners like stevia or honey in moderation.
Conclusion
Making informed choices about the foods you consume is crucial for maintaining a good health. By avoiding trans fats, sugary drinks, processed meats, white bread, and artificial sweeteners, they can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve the overall well-being. Instead, focus on incorporating whole, nutrient-dense foods into your diet to support optimal health and longevity. Remember, every bite counts towards a healthier you!
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Mrs. Poulami Mitra is a dietician with an M.Sc. in Dietetitcs & Community nutrition management and a life member of Indian Dietetics Association. She is a coauthor of this article.
References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16611951
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23966427
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20479151
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