2. Stop Buying Processed Foods
Processed foods are bad news, whether you’re looking to lose weight or not – and if you are planning to embark on a diet, they can actively sabotage your efforts. Studies have found a definitive link between regular processed food consumption and obesity, along with a higher chance of adipose tissue related health risks. Adipose tissue is where your body stores excess fat and if you have too much of it, it can place you at higher risk of developing cardiac issues, diabetes and more.
As processed foods don’t contain much, if any protein, they can also make you feel less satisfied, making you eat more at mealtimes.. This is because protein makes you feel fuller, so if you have adequate amounts of it at every meal, you’ll likely eat less than if you skip it. Scientists analysed 5 studies looking at the impact of dietary protein intake and found that higher amounts of protein could be positively associated with increased feelings of fullness.
Processed food is not only full of empty calories, it’s also loaded with additives, toxins and weight loss saboteurs, such as high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). If you want to reach your weight loss goals, you’d do well to avoid this one, as HFCS encourages the body to store more abdominal fat and it also decreases the effectiveness of your metabolism.
Instead of loading up on junk food next time you’re at the store, try making simple swaps that will boost a healthy diet. Exchange white bread for wholemeal, sugary drinks for sparkling water or herbal tea and switch processed meat and cheese for fresh.
There’s one more important thing to remember and we know it might sound contrary but you should avoid most diet foods that are advertised as being low fat and low carb. Some of these culprits might seem healthy at first, such as margarine, granola bars, and low fat yoghurt but to maintain their taste, they’re usually loaded with chemical sweeteners or trans fat, so we recommend you give them a pass!
