When trying to lose weight, most people think that they should cut out unhealthy foods such as candy, chips, and fast food.
While these foods certainly don’t help with weight loss, there are other unexpected foods that might hinder your progress without you even realizing it. Here are 10 foods that you might not think of as unhealthy but can actually hinder your weight loss efforts.
1. Granola
Granola is often thought of as a healthy food, but many store-bought varieties contain a lot of added sugar and calories. A half-cup serving of granola can contain around 300 calories, which is a lot for a small snack.
Additionally, granola is often added to yogurt or eaten with milk, which can add even more calories to your diet. If you love granola, try making your own at home with less sugar and portion it out as a small snack rather than eating it by the handful.
2. Dried Fruit
Dried fruit may seem like a healthier alternative to candy, but it can also be high in sugar and calories. Because the water content has been removed, the fruit becomes more concentrated with sugar and can be easy to overeat.
Additionally, many store-bought varieties contain added sugar or syrup. If you want to enjoy dried fruit, look for varieties that are unsweetened and portion it out.
3. Smoothies
Smoothies can be a great way to get in your fruits and vegetables, but they can also be loaded with sugar and calories. Many smoothie shops or pre-made smoothies contain added sugar and can have as much as 500-600 calories per serving.
Additionally, when drinking a smoothie, it can be easy to overconsume since it’s in a liquid form. If you want to enjoy a smoothie, make it at home with unsweetened ingredients and be mindful of portion sizes.
4. Salad Dressings
Salads are often thought of as a healthy option, but the dressing can quickly add on calories and fat. Many store-bought dressings are high in sugar, sodium, and unhealthy fats.
For a healthier option, try making your own dressing at home with olive oil and vinegar or lemon juice.
5. Nut Butters
Nut butters, such as peanut or almond butter, can be a great source of protein and healthy fats. However, they can also be high in calories and easy to overeat. A serving size is typically 2 tablespoons, which can contain up to 200 calories.
If you enjoy nut butters, portion out a serving size and be mindful of how much you’re consuming.
6. Rice Cakes
Rice cakes are often thought of as a low-calorie snack, but they can be high in carbohydrates and lacking in nutrients. Additionally, many people will add toppings such as nut butter or jam, which can add on calories and sugar.
If you enjoy rice cakes, try pairing them with a healthier topping such as avocado or hummus.
7. Sushi
Sushi can be a healthy option when eaten in moderation, but it can also be high in calories and sodium. Many sushi rolls are made with creamy sauces or fried ingredients, which can add on extra calories and fat.
Additionally, the white rice used in sushi can be high in carbohydrates. If you enjoy sushi, try sticking with rolls that contain lean protein such as salmon or tuna and limit the amount of sauces or fried toppings.
8. Cereal
Cereal can be a quick and easy breakfast option, but many varieties are loaded with sugar and lacking in nutrients. Additionally, it can be easy to overeat cereal since a serving size is typically small.
If you enjoy cereal, look for varieties that are high in fiber and protein and have less than 10 grams of sugar per serving.
9. Veggie Chips
Veggie chips, such as beet or kale chips, can seem like a healthier alternative to potato chips. However, many varieties are coated in oil and salt and can be just as high in calories as regular chips.
Additionally, they often lack the nutrients found in their fresh vegetable counterparts. If you enjoy veggie chips, look for varieties that are baked instead of fried and have minimal added ingredients.
10. Energy Bars
Energy bars can be a convenient snack option, but many varieties are loaded with sugar and artificial ingredients. Additionally, they can be high in calories and easy to overeat.
If you enjoy energy bars, look for varieties that contain minimal added sugar and have a good source of protein and fiber.