- Soy sauce
Despite being low in calories, soy sauce is extremely high on sodium that can leave you bloated and increase the risk of hypertension. There are many low-sodium soy sauce options available these days but they are not significantly lower than the regular ones. Use sparingly.
- Multi-grain bread
All those pretty seeds sitting on top of the loaf look healthy and inviting. But it’s what the bread is made of that really matters. Multi-grain may not necessarily mean whole grain. Make sure to check the labels.
- Alcohol
Even average wine drinkers consume up to 2,000 extra calories every month. A glass of sparkling white may look innocuous but its cumulative effects can hinder weight loss. According to diet expert Robert C Atkins, alcohol is the first thing your body burns before it moves on to anything else. So until your body gets rid of alcohol from your system, you won’t burn any fat.
- Sugar-free products
How many of you are guilty of consuming this? Trust us these products just seem low in calories but the effect on your health is too dangerous to not pay attention to it. While these may be low in calories, consuming them can raise your insulin level, as they often contain unhealthy sugar alternatives.
- Cereals sold in value-size boxes
According to research by Cornell University's Food and Brand Lab, people consume up to 22 per cent more when they eat from larger packages. Large packets may be easy on the wallet but certainly not on health.
- 100-calorie snacks
So you know that you’re only consuming 100 calories per portion, but is it really adding to your daily nutrition? Cutting back on calories doesn’t mean you have to load up on junk. These make for great occasional treats but not for regular meal options.
- High-fiber snack bars
These bars contain fiber, which is essential for you, but the problem is that they deliver it in big doses, not steadily throughout the day. Rachel Harvest, a registered dietitian affiliated with Tournesol Wellness in New York says, "Fiber intake has to be consistent throughout the day to stave off hunger, improve digestive health, and not cause stomach upset."
- Whole milk
Whole milk is loaded with extra fat and cholesterol. Go for the skimmed variety to enjoy the goodness of milk without worrying about the calories.
- Tropical fruits
Fruits make for great snacks when on a diet but there are some that you may want to avoid if your goal is to lose weight. Go easy on fruits such as mangoes and ripe pineapples as they are especially high in natural sugars.
- Microwave popcorn
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the chemicals found in bags of microwave popcorn are known to increase the chances of developing infertility and thyroid problems. Popcorn is a great low-calorie snack, just not when it comes out of a bag filled with additives.
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