A healthy weight loss plan should consist of nutritious foods combined with regular physical activity. A well-balanced diet contains complex carbohydrates, lean proteins and healthy fats. These foods are rich in essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals needed for normal body functions. In contrast, there are certain foods that offer little nutrition and should be avoided on a diet plan. Avoid eating foods that are high in calories, fat and sugar as they will hinder weight-loss efforts.
Hydrogenated Fats
Hydrogenated fats should always be avoided when trying to lose weight or live a healthier lifestyle. These fats are not natural; they are artificially created in food laboratories to increase the flavor and texture of certain foods. Hydrogenated fats not only store extra fat on the body but also increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. They increase levels of low-density lipoprotein, or bad cholesterol, in the blood and decrease good cholesterol known as high-density lipoprotein. Common foods to avoid include mayonnaise, margarine, processed peanut butter brands, fried foods and pastries. Read nutrition labels carefully as many processed store-bought cookies and granola bars also contain these fats.
White Flours
White flour is typically found in white bread, cookies, bars and baked goods. This flour is stripped of its nutrients during the milling process and often higher in sugar content. It's low fiber and high sugar content cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate often leading to increased hunger cravings for foods high in fat and sugar. Taking in too many calories will lead to weight gain. Avoid simple, processed carbohydrates and select whole-grain products that are a source of dietary fiber and essential nutrients.
Fried Foods
Fried foods including burgers, french fries, bacon and donuts should be avoided on a weight loss plan. These foods are high in unhealthy fats such as saturated fats. Saturated fats increase the build-up of plaque in the body and lead to narrowing of the arteries, or atherosclerosis. This is a contributing risk factor to hypercholesteromia, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. In addition, the high fat and calorie count of these foods will increase the storage of fat and lead to weight gain.
Soda Pop
Soda drinks are high in sugar and have no nutrients to offer for a healthy body. The sugar and calories contained in most commercially sold soda drinks lead to excess fat and weight gain. In 2009, the American Heart Association stated that American adults consume up to 22 teaspoons of sugar a day and teenagers a staggering 34 teaspoons. Recommended limits for sugar are 6 added teaspoons daily for women and 9 for men. It was found that the high sugar intakes can be mostly attributed to soda pop and candy. Excess sugar in the diet can lead to weight gain, obesity, diabetes, stroke and heart conditions.
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