30 Foods Dietitians Avoid Eating

Dietitians understand better than most the truth behind the saying "you are what you eat." Eating well contributes to a healthier, more active lifestyle, potentially leading to a longer and more fulfilling life.

The question then becomes: do you desire a healthier diet and lifestyle? Making better food choices is essential for achieving your weight loss objectives. Here are 30 foods that dietitians suggest you avoid.

30 FOODS DIETITIANS AVOID

1. SAUSAGES

Sausages typically consist of pork, a high amount of fat, and spices. If that were all, an occasional small portion might not be harmful. However, the issue with most processed meats, including sausages, is the use of nitrates as preservatives.

These chemicals can break down into carcinogenic substances once inside your body. Moreover, this common breakfast item is high in salt, which can elevate blood pressure and lead to other health problems. Unfortunately, pork is not the "other white meat."

2. SUGARY CEREALS

Research indicates that most pre-sweetened cereals contain nearly a tablespoon of sugar per serving, with those aimed at children having up to 60 percent more sugar than adult-targeted varieties. Opting for low-sugar cereals or traditional oatmeal is a healthier choice.

3. ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS

The longstanding debate between sugar and artificial sweeteners has persisted for decades. Dietitians, recognizing the weight gain and disease risk associated with excessive sugar consumption, began the quest for an alternative. Yet, these laboratory-engineered substitutes have introduced a different array of health concerns.

For years, scientists have cautioned about the cancer risks linked to consuming saccharine. Aspartame, once hailed as a miraculous sweetener, quickly lost its appeal upon the discovery of its potential health hazards. Most dietitians advise avoiding artificial sweeteners and instead, opting for modest amounts of honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar.

4. MICROWAVE POPCORN

Choosing a brand of microwave popcorn devoid of salt, butter, or additional toppings doesn't eliminate health risks. The packaging, when microwaved, can emit a carcinogenic compound known as PFCs. For a healthier alternative, pop fresh kernels on the stove or in a hot air popper and enhance them with tasty herbs or spices.

5. MARGARINE

Margarine may have lower saturated fat levels, but it matches pure butter in calories and overall fat content. The majority of the fat in margarine is trans fat, which poses greater health risks than the saturated fats found in butter. Opt for brands with minimal trans fats or indulge in a small amount of butter occasionally.

6. PROCESSED DELI FOODS

Processed deli items are a far cry from their natural state, often containing artificial fillers and preservatives that can lead to heart disease or cancer. A better choice is unprocessed lean meats and whole foods. For instance, baking a whole chicken on Sunday, slicing it thinly, and using it for sandwiches over the next few days is a healthier, safer option.

7. FROZEN DINNERS

Convenience doesn't always equate to healthiness. Many frozen dinners, even those labeled "healthy," are replete with preservatives and can contain as many calories and fats as their regular counterparts. For quick and healthy dinner options, consider freezing your own wholesome entrees and sides.

8. CANNED CHEESE

While canned cheese might be a fun treat to squirt on crackers or directly into your mouth, especially for kids or those young at heart, many items are better off not canned—cheese included. The canned variety is not only high in sodium but also filled with chemicals and preservatives that are detrimental to health.

9. HOTDOGS

Hotdogs, a classic element of American cuisine, are notably absent from dietitians' recommended food lists. They are typically made from lower-quality meat cuts, excessive salt, and harmful nitrates. Research indicates that children who consume too many hotdogs have an increased risk of leukemia.

 For those who enjoy hotdogs, it's advisable to choose brands that are 100% beef, free from fillers, and artificial ingredients.

10. RAMEN NOODLES

The inexpensive, dried, and crunchy noodles wrapped in plastic found in grocery stores bear little resemblance to authentic Japanese ramen. Often a go-to for college students, these noodles may seem healthy and are simple to prepare, but they are laden with fat, and the accompanying spice packets are primarily salt and MSG.

11. FRUIT YOGURT

It might seem that dietitians would prefer fruit yogurt over sugary cereal for breakfast, but the difference is minimal. Many fruit yogurt brands use sugary jams instead of whole fruits, which doesn't benefit your health. Opting for plain yogurt with fresh fruit is a healthier choice.

12. SODA

Many popular carbonated drinks contain up to 11 teaspoons of sugar per 12-ounce can, with a staggering 185 empty calories, artificial colors, and unhealthy ingredients. Water is the best choice, or perhaps sparkling water with a twist of lemon for variety.

13. DIET COLA

Switching from sugary soda to diet cola might seem healthier, but diet sodas have zero calories and artificial sweeteners, which have been associated with cancer risks. Moreover, numerous studies have indicated that consuming diet soda could lead to weight gain.

14. CANNED FRUITS IN SYRUP

Fruits are best enjoyed in their natural, sweet, and juicy state. High fructose corn syrup, often found in canned fruits, can contribute to obesity and diabetes. Dietitians recommend choosing canned fruits in water or fruit juice without added sugar. Canned fruits in syrup are far from healthy.

15. WHEAT

Eating natural wheat products in moderation is generally safe for most people. However, those with gluten intolerance should avoid wheat. Consulting with dietitians for alternative options is advisable for those affected by this condition.

16. ICING WITH FOOD COLORING

While an occasional piece of cake is a treat, be cautious of colored icing. Early research links food coloring in icing to hyperactivity in children and potential cancer risks in adults. Opting for cake without the sugary icing is a healthier choice.

17. SUGAR-FREE TREATS

Today's market is overflowing with sugar-free treats for those on a diet. But should you consume them guilt-free? Reading the labels reveals that many contain as many calories as their sugary equivalents, along with additional sodium and potentially harmful sugar substitutes. It's better to seek out natural alternatives for sweet cravings.

18. SKIM MILK

Do you opt for skim milk to reduce your daily fat consumption? A glass of whole milk contains only about 12% of the recommended daily fat intake and provides longer-lasting satiety. Consuming too little fat can lead to excessive cravings for carbs and sugar, which may contribute to heart disease and diabetes.

19. WHITE RICE

Dietitians often recommend brown over white rice for good reason. White rice undergoes processing and bleaching, stripping away much of its fiber and nutrients. Brown rice, on the other hand, offers a rich, nutty flavor that complements any rice dish beautifully.

20. SPORTS AND ENERGY DRINKS

A quick look at the labels of popular energy drinks can be startling, revealing high amounts of sugar and caffeine. Some sports drinks are also laden with an excess of herbal supplements and vitamins, which can be more detrimental than beneficial. Instead, opt for fresh water or a homemade smoothie and skip the sports drinks.

21. SUSHI

Not all sushi is considered healthy by dietitians. It's important to be mindful of the fish you consume, as shark, marlin, swordfish, and certain types of mackerel may contain dangerous levels of mercury. Safer choices include tuna, salmon, and vegetable-based sushi.

22. PANCAKE SYRUP

Pancake syrup might resemble the taste of maple syrup, but it's actually just artificially flavored high fructose corn syrup. It's loaded with empty calories and can increase your sugar cravings. In moderation, pure maple syrup is a better option for sweetening.

23. CANNED SOUP

There's little as comforting as a hot bowl of soup on a cold evening. Opt for homemade to enjoy a tastier and healthier meal. Canned soups often contain excessive sodium and artificial ingredients that are unnecessary. Instead, prepare a large pot of soup to savor over the weekend, and store the leftovers in freezer containers for later.

24. COFFEE CREAMER

If you like cream in your coffee, be aware that dietitians often avoid coffee creamers. These "non-dairy" products contain sugar, trans fats, and corn syrup, which are detrimental to heart health and can contribute to diabetes. A small amount of real cream is a better choice, or you might consider acquiring a taste for black coffee.

25. FAST FOOD CHEESEBURGERS

Fast food cheeseburgers, as iconic as hotdogs, can be detrimental to your health. A single burger can contain up to 14 grams of fat, not to mention the high calories and carbs. If you're craving a cheeseburger, try grilling one at home and serve it with vegetables and without a bun.

26. FRENCH FRIES

A burger without fries might seem incomplete, but this fast food favorite is often high in fat and sodium. Did you know you can make crispy fries at home in the oven with fresh herbs and less salt?

27. FRUIT JUICE

One might assume that fruit juice is a healthier choice than soda, but this is not always the case. Even 100% fruit juices can contain high levels of fructose, a natural sugar that may contribute to the accumulation of fat cells in the abdomen. For a touch of fruit flavor, consider adding a few berries or slices of citrus to your water instead.

28. CANOLA OIL

Canola oil, while potentially healthier than lard or other cooking oils, is not the best option available. It is a hydrogenated oil processed with chemicals, which may lead to inflammation and increase the risk of certain cancers. A healthier alternative would be to use olive or grapeseed oil.

29. RED MEAT

Lean red meat may be approved by dietitians in moderation, but medical experts still raise concerns about its saturated fat content and the hormones it contains. It is advisable to consume it sparingly and opt for white meat, fish, or plant-based proteins instead.

30. HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP

High fructose corn syrup, a sugar derived from corn, has been linked to inflammation within the body. Chronic inflammation can heighten the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. It is recommended to avoid this sweetener and choose natural alternatives like honey.

Maintaining a balanced diet daily is crucial, and it's wise to limit the intake of items such as sausages, French fries, sugary cereals, processed deli foods, and ramen noodles. Learning about healthier choices enables you to prepare delicious meals for your family, reflecting the adage, "You are what you eat."

Source: powerofpositivity.com