When it comes to healthy eating, many people focus on the foods that they should be eating more of, such as vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains.

However, it’s also important to consider the foods that you should be cutting out of your diet in order to promote good health and prevent chronic disease.

Sugar-Sweetened Beverages

Sugar-sweetened beverages are one of the biggest contributors to added sugar in the diet and are linked to a range of negative health outcomes, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

These include soda, energy drinks, sports drinks, and fruit drinks that contain added sugars. A better choice is to drink water, unsweetened tea, or low-fat milk instead of these sugary drinks.

Processed Meats

Processed meats, such as bacon, sausage, hot dogs, and deli meats, are often high in saturated fat, sodium, and preservatives. These meats have been linked with an increased risk of colorectal cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.

A better choice is to choose lean cuts of meat and poultry, fish, or plant-based proteins like beans and lentils.

White Bread, White Rice, and Pasta

Refined carbohydrates, such as white breads, white rice, and pasta, are high in calories, low in nutrients, and can contribute to weight gain and chronic disease.

Instead, choose whole-grain breads, brown rice, and whole-grain pasta, which are higher in fiber and will help you feel more full and satisfied after a meal.

Processed Snack Foods

Processed snack foods, such as chips, crackers, and cookies, are often high in fat, calories, and sodium, and low in nutrients. These snacks can contribute to weight gain and chronic diseases.

Instead, choose whole-food snacks, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, or choose minimally processed snacks like popcorn or rice cakes.

Fried Foods

Fried foods, such as french fries, fried chicken, and fried fish, are often high in calories, unhealthy fats, and sodium. These foods have been linked with an increased risk of heart disease and other chronic diseases.

Instead, choose baked or grilled versions of your favorite fried foods, or try different cooking methods like steaming or sautéing.

Highly Processed Breakfast Cereals

Highly processed breakfast cereals are often high in sugar, refined grains, and preservatives. These cereals can lead to weight gain and spikes in blood sugar levels.

Instead, choose whole-grain cereals that are low in sugar and high in fiber, or make your own homemade granola with oats, nuts, and fruit.