Monday, November 26, 2012

Top 5 foods to avoid

Eating healthy isn't easy, especially when we don't always have nutritional information available. There's a lot of information about the kind of foods you should and shouldn't eat out there – depending on your circumstances. For example there are certain foods you should not consume while pregnant. This is a list of the foods you should avoid if you want to decrease your risk of developing the chronic illnesses linked with the ingredients in the foods. It is by no means an exclusive list and it is important to always check with your doctor or health professional if you wish to eliminate certain foods entirely from your diet. Personal training courses can teach you how to individually tailor a clients' diet with a manageable fitness regime.
Sauces and seasonings
Most pre-packaged sauces that you can buy from the supermarket are high calorie and fat and are full of preservatives. In addition, they do not add nutritional value to your diet. That being said, not all sauces are bad for you. You can make your own sauces by mixing natural ingredients like olive oil, real tomatoes and other fresh foods that don't contain sugar and bad fats. Mayonnaise, bottled tomato sauce and ranch salad dressing should be avoided. Seasonings can also be a detriment to your health (think chicken salt, refined table salt and pre-packaged spices) – sea salt is a great alternative.
Processed meats
Processed meats are defined as any sort of meat that has been preserved by smoking, salting or by adding various chemicals. Salami and packaged ham are popular processed meats you'll find at your local deli or supermarket. Studies have established a link between processed meats and the increased risk of stomach cancer. In the fast-paced modern world we live in, avoiding all processed foods is very difficult, as so many foods contain them you have to actively avoid the foods which contain preservatives. Keep your processed meats consumption to less than 2 grams per day.
Microwave popcorn
Microwave anything is a big no-no if you're trying to stick to a healthy diet. But microwave popcorn in particular has been linked to some serious health problems. The chemicals in the lining of the bag belong to a class of compounds known to cause infertility in humans. Tests on animals have shown the chemicals cause various cancers.
Sweet carbonated beverages
Softdrinks are packed with artificial stuff and they are high in sugar. Don't think you can get away with their diet alternatives, because even they contain less than desirable ingredients. If you can only manage to eliminate only one thing from your diet, your best bet would be to replace all softdrinks with water or 100% natural juices.
Sweet caffeinated drinks
A standard ice coffee with added milk and sugar can contain up to 450 calories. Coffee on its own isn't too bad for you (unless you're particularly sensitive to the effects of caffeine). However, flavoured syrups, cream toppings / whipped cream and whole milk all add to the calorie count. You can find healthier options in skim substitutes and by having your iced coffee without whipped cream.

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