With the start of a new year comes the opportunity to reset our eating habits and make healthier choices. As we embark on a journey toward better health, it’s important to identify the foods that are sabotaging our efforts.

Here are 30 foods to say goodbye to this January:.

Processed Meats

Processed meats, such as hot dogs, bacon, and lunch meat, are high in sodium and often contain preservatives and additives that are linked to cancer and other health issues. Opt for lean, unprocessed meats instead.

Sugar-Sweetened Beverages

Sodas, sweetened teas, and sports drinks are loaded with added sugar and provide empty calories. Choose water, unsweetened tea, or low-sugar alternatives.

Fried Foods

Fried foods, such as french fries and fried chicken, are high in unhealthy fats and calories. Instead, try baking, grilling, or roasting for a healthier alternative.

White Bread

White bread is highly processed and lacks fiber and nutrients. Choose whole grain bread for more nutrients and fiber.

Fast Food

Fast food is high in calories, sodium, and unhealthy fats. It also provides little to no nutritional value. Plan ahead and prepare healthy meals at home.

Candy

Candy is loaded with sugar and provides no nutritional value. Opt for fresh fruit or a small serving of dark chocolate for a healthier sweet treat.

Cakes and Pastries

Cakes and pastries are high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and calories. Try making homemade versions with healthier ingredients or opt for whole grain versions.

Alcohol

Alcohol is high in empty calories and can also lead to poor food choices. Limit your intake or try non-alcoholic alternatives.

High-Sugar Cereals

Many breakfast cereals are loaded with added sugar and provide little to no nutritional value. Choose whole grain options with lower sugar content.

White Rice

White rice is highly processed and lacks nutrients. Try brown rice, quinoa, or other whole grain alternatives for more nutritional value.

Ice Cream

Ice cream is high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and calories. Opt for frozen yogurt or homemade ice cream with healthier ingredients.

Canned Soups

Canned soups are often high in sodium and contain additives and preservatives. Try homemade soups or look for low-sodium options.

High-Fat Cheeses

High-fat cheeses, such as cheddar and brie, are loaded with calories and unhealthy fats. Choose lower-fat alternatives such as mozzarella or feta.

Sauces and Condiments

Sauces and condiments, such as ketchup, mayonnaise, and barbecue sauce, can be high in added sugar and unhealthy fats. Look for low-sugar and low-fat alternatives.

Potato Chips

Potato chips are high in unhealthy fats and sodium. Opt for baked chips or try healthier snacks such as nuts or vegetable sticks.

Processed Cheese Spreads

Processed cheese spreads are often high in unhealthy fats and contain additives and preservatives. Choose natural cheese instead.

Biscuits

Biscuits are high in unhealthy fats and calories. Try making homemade versions with healthier ingredients or opt for whole grain crackers.

White Pasta

White pasta is highly processed and lacks nutrients. Choose whole grain pasta for more nutritional value.

Energy Bars

Many energy bars are loaded with added sugar and provide little to no nutritional value. Look for bars with whole food ingredients and no added sugars.

Sugary Cereals

Sugary cereals are high in added sugars and provide little to no nutritional value. Choose whole grain options with lower sugar content.

Sugary Yogurts

Sugary yogurts are often loaded with added sugars and provide little to no nutritional value. Look for plain yogurts with no added sugars and add fresh fruit for natural sweetness.

Canned Fruit in Syrup

Canned fruit in syrup is loaded with added sugars and provides little to no nutritional value. Opt for fresh or frozen fruit instead.

Popcorn

Popcorn can be high in unhealthy fats and sodium if it’s microwaved or prepared with lots of butter. Try air-popped popcorn or lightly salted versions.

Fruit Juice

Fruit juice is often high in added sugars and lacks fiber. Opt for whole fruit instead or look for juices with no added sugars.

White Flour Tortillas

White flour tortillas are highly processed and lack nutrients. Choose whole grain tortillas for more nutritional value.

Granola

Granola can be high in added sugars and calories. Look for options with no added sugars or make homemade versions for better control of ingredients.

Margarine

Margarine can be high in unhealthy fats and additives. Opt for natural butter or plant-based spreads such as avocado or nut spreads.

High-Sugar Coffee Drinks

Many coffee drinks are loaded with added sugars and provide little to no nutritional value. Opt for black coffee or choose healthier alternatives such as almond milk lattes with no added sugars.

Baked Goods

Baked goods such as muffins and cookies can be high in added sugars and unhealthy fats. Try making homemade versions with healthier ingredients or opt for whole grain versions.

Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners such as saccharin and aspartame have been linked to health issues such as cancer and headaches. Opt for natural sweeteners such as stevia or honey instead.

Processed Snacks

Processed snacks such as cheese puffs and snack mix can be high in unhealthy fats, sodium, and preservatives. Opt for healthier snacks such as fresh fruit, nuts, or air-popped popcorn.

Conclusion

Eliminating these 30 foods from your diet can be a challenge, but the rewards are worth it. By making healthier choices and avoiding these unhealthy options, you’ll feel better, have more energy, and improve your overall health.

Remember to also incorporate exercise and other healthy habits for a well-rounded approach to better health.