Welcome to today’s article where we’re going to cover the 10 worst foods that are absolutely destroying your health and your energy. These are my 10 foods that I think are like landmines when you’re out in the world that you absolutely must avoid. You probably know some of these foods, but what you’re going to get in this article is why these foods are so bad.
Understanding why is super important because it can be tempting to go for some chips or a donut, but when you have an understanding of how much these things are wrecking your body, it’s going to be a lot easier to resist them. Even better, I’m going to show you some of my favorite healthy alternatives for each of these, so you can have a nutrition plan you enjoy sticking to, one that still includes snacks and desserts but with better options. That’s what we’re going to cover in today’s article.
1. Chips
We all love them. Lays, Ruffles, salt and vinegar chips, and more. The problem is that chips are literally the living definition of empty calories. They take a low-quality potato, put inflammatory oils on it, deep fry that thing, and then cover it in salt. There’s basically no nutritional value in chips. They’re loaded with calories, do not keep you full, and often contain preservatives and other additives.
In fact, if you have three ounces of chips a week, it adds over 24,000 calories to your diet every year, equivalent to around seven pounds of added fat. So, you’ve got to get chips out of your life. The key to doing that is to go into your pantry, throw out those low-quality chips, and replace them with healthier versions. There are brands like Siete that make chips with better ingredients. These chips are typically made with healthier flours, like almond or cassava flour, and use avocado oil, which is a much healthier oil. To avoid overeating, it’s also essential to portion your chips properly and avoid mindlessly snacking from the bag.
2. Non-organic bread
I want to highlight non-organic bread early in this article because eating the right kind of bread can still fit into a healthy diet. The key here is organic. If you’re eating non-organic bread, it’s sprayed with a pesticide called glyphosate, also known as Roundup, which is toxic and can cause various health issues.
Organic bread options like Ezekiel bread or Dave’s Killer sprouted bread are better choices. Even organic sourdough bread can be a healthier option. These breads are less likely to have harmful pesticides and are better for your health. If you’re eating bread, make sure it’s of good quality, and if you’re sensitive to wheat or gluten, consider alternatives like sprouted bread or ancient wheat varieties like Einkorn wheat.
3. Baked goods
Baked goods like pastries, donuts, and strudels. These sweet treats may be delicious, but they are not as innocent as they seem. They often contain unhealthy ingredients, including low-quality flour, inflammatory fats like vegetable shortening, high sugar content, and additives like bromides. Bromides are used in baked goods to improve their texture, but they can be harmful to your health. They can interfere with your thyroid gland and hinder thyroid function, which can lead to various health issues. So, it’s essential to avoid pastries and baked goods that contain these harmful additives. Instead, you can enjoy healthier dessert options like fruit, dark chocolate, or homemade treats made with better ingredients.
4. Pasta & cream sauce
Especially, when served with cream-based sauces like chicken alfredo. Pasta, when made with refined flour and loaded with high-fat, creamy sauces, can be problematic for your health. Cream-based pasta dishes are high in calories and unhealthy saturated fats, which can contribute to weight gain and heart issues. To enjoy pasta in a healthier way, opt for whole wheat pasta or alternative pasta options like chickpea pasta or brown rice pasta, which provide more nutrients and fiber. Also, choose lighter sauces like tomato-based or olive oil-based sauces. These choices can help you satisfy your pasta cravings without sacrificing your health.
5. Fried fish & Chicken
Fried fish and fried chicken, but this extends to fried foods in general. These fried foods involve coating meat, often of lower quality, with refined flour, deep-frying it in low-quality oil, and adding a considerable amount of unhealthy trans fats. Consuming fried foods can lead to cardiovascular issues, like heart failure, as they contain inflammatory fats that can accumulate in your arteries and contribute to atherosclerosis.
To make healthier choices, avoid fried foods and instead opt for baked, grilled, or broiled preparations. You can enjoy the same proteins without the added health risks associated with deep-frying. When dining out, look for healthier protein options, like grilled chicken or fish, and choose sides like steamed vegetables to create a balanced meal.
6. Processed meats
These meats are often laden with nitrites and nitrates, which can increase your risk of colon cancer. Additionally, processed meats are typically made from lower-quality cuts of meat and contain high levels of salt and unhealthy saturated fats. Reducing your consumption of processed meats is vital for overall health. Opt for higher-quality, less processed alternatives, such as lean cuts of meat or healthier options like organic chicken sausages, turkey breast, or even plant-based protein sources.
7. French fries
While it’s no surprise that french fries are unhealthy, it’s important to understand why. When potatoes are cooked at high temperatures in vegetable oils, they produce a compound called acrylamides, which can have detrimental health effects. Acrylamides are linked to aging, an increased risk of cancer, and other health issues. To protect your health, it’s essential to avoid french fries, which are one of the main sources of acrylamides in our diets. Instead, try healthier alternatives like baked sweet potato fries or homemade oven-baked potato slices with olive oil and seasonings.
8. Too much dairy & ice cream
Ice cream is typically high in sugar, contains various additives, and is often consumed at night, which can disrupt your blood sugar levels. To make healthier choices, consider switching to low-sugar or dairy-free ice cream alternatives, which are now widely available in the market. They offer a tasty treat without the excessive sugar content. When it comes to dairy, be mindful of your consumption. Many people are sensitive to dairy or lactose intolerant. Choose dairy options like Greek yogurt or fermented yogurt, kefir, or sheep’s or goat’s cheese in moderation. Avoid consuming dairy excessively or if you have adverse reactions to it.
9. Highly processed plant-based foods
While incorporating plant-based foods into your diet can be healthy, be cautious about highly processed plant-based options, such as fake meat products. Many of these products contain low-quality ingredients like gluten or soy protein, unhealthy oils, fillers, and food coloring. Instead, focus on whole plant-based foods like beans, lentils, vegetables, and whole grains. These provide better nutrition and are a healthier choice for plant-based eating. Choose natural and minimally processed ingredients to enjoy the benefits of a plant-based diet without the downsides of highly processed alternatives.
10. High sugar fruit drinks
Food number ten is high sugar fruit drinks that are often marketed as healthy options. Many of these drinks are loaded with sugar and have little nutritional value. While they may claim to provide vitamins and antioxidants, the sugar content outweighs any potential benefits. Instead of high sugar fruit drinks, opt for whole fruit to enjoy the natural vitamins, minerals, and fiber it provides. Juicing your fruits and vegetables at home can also be a healthier alternative, as long as you avoid adding excessive sugar. Choose fresh and natural ingredients to create nutritious homemade juices.
In conclusion, making informed choices about the foods you consume is essential for maintaining good health. Avoiding or minimizing the intake of the 10 worst foods mentioned in this article can help you lead a healthier and more energized life. Consider incorporating healthier alternatives and whole foods into your diet to improve your overall well-being. Remember to make mindful choices that support your health and well-being.
