A low-fat diet is essential in keeping a trim midsection. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, published by the USDA, recommends that people on a 2,000 calorie per day diet consume no more than 20g of saturated fat daily. Since that's the maximum amount, people trying to lose weight should consume even less. Often times, common foods are hiding large amounts of saturated fat--enough to put people over the daily limit with just one serving. Refer to the list below to avoid these diet busters.
Creamy Soups
Soup can seem like a light, seemingly innocent lunch or dinner. Unfortunately, many soups are loaded with saturated fat. The worst culprits are thick, creamy soups like New England clam chowder, broccoli and cheese, cream of potato, and any type of bisque. Instead, opt for chicken noodle or a vegetarian chili. Look for low-sodium options on all types of soup. Salt causes bloating which gives the appearance of weight gain.
Deli Sandwiches
Deli sandwiches can be a dangerous lunch time food choice. Processed meats are high in saturated fat and sodium. When topped with cheese and mayonnaise, one sandwich can include more than a day's worth of saturated fat. Furthermore, a 2006 study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that diets high in red and processed meat increased the risk for stomach cancer. Fortunately, there are delicious alternatives to a deli sandwich. Swap grilled chicken for processed lunch meat, mustard for mayonnaise, and low-fat or soy cheese for the real thing.
Lattes
Lattes, loaded with cream and topped with whipped cream, are also high in saturated fat. With or without the fat, most people can't afford an additional 300 to 400 calories on one beverage. Regular latte drinkers should switch to black coffee or herbal teas to lose belly fat.
Salad Dressings
Certain types of salad dressings like ranch, blue cheese, and anything that starts with creamy should be avoided when trying to lose weight. The healthiest types of salad dressings are those that are homemade by mixing olive oil, vinegar, and light seasonings. If that's not an option, look for a fat-free or low-fat variety.
Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese, one of the all-time greatest comfort foods, can wreak havoc on the waistline. In addition to cheese, it contains other sources of saturated fat like cream and butter. The same goes for fettuccini alfredo and other types of cheese based pasta sauces. Unfortunately, substitutes aren't likely to cut it in terms of taste, so these sauces should be avoided.
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