As we strive to lead healthier lifestyles, making informed choices about the food we eat plays a crucial role in achieving our goals. While it’s easy to get caught up in the latest fad diets and trends, it’s essential to understand the impact that certain foods can have on our overall health and wellbeing. In this article, we’ll explore the worst foods to eat when trying to be healthy, and provide guidance on how to make better choices.
1. Processed Meats
Processed meats, such as hot dogs, sausages, bacon, and deli meats, are some of the worst offenders when it comes to healthy eating. These foods are high in sodium, preservatives, and saturated fat, which can increase our risk of heart disease, certain cancers, and type 2 diabetes. A study by the World Health Organization (WHO) found that consuming processed meat daily can increase our risk of colorectal cancer by 18%.
2. Sugary Drinks
Sugary drinks, such as soda, sports drinks, and sweetened teas and coffees, are high in calories, added sugars, and artificial sweeteners. These drinks can lead to a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a crash, leaving us feeling lethargic and sluggish. Consuming high amounts of sugary drinks has been linked to an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and tooth decay.
3. Refined Grains
Refined grains, such as white bread, pasta, and sugary cereals, are stripped of fiber, vitamins, and minerals during processing. These foods are high on the glycemic index, causing a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, which can lead to insulin resistance and inflammation. Consuming high amounts of refined grains has been linked to an increased risk of obesity, heart disease, and certain cancers.
4. Fried Foods
Fried foods, such as french fries, fried chicken, and doughnuts, are high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium. These foods can lead to weight gain, increased blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease. A study by the American Heart Association found that consuming fried foods daily can increase our risk of heart disease by 20%.
5. High-Sugar Snacks
High-sugar snacks, such as candy, cookies, and cakes, are high in empty calories, added sugars, and artificial ingredients. These foods can lead to a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a crash, leaving us feeling lethargic and sluggish. Consuming high amounts of high-sugar snacks has been linked to an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and tooth decay.
6. Saturated and Trans Fats
Saturated and trans fats, found in foods such as butter, lard, and partially hydrogenated oils, can increase our risk of heart disease and stroke. These fats can raise our levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also known as “bad” cholesterol. A study by the American Heart Association found that consuming saturated and trans fats daily can increase our risk of heart disease by 10%.
7. Foods High in Sodium
Foods high in sodium, such as processed meats, canned soups, and frozen meals, can increase our risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. Consuming high amounts of sodium can lead to fluid retention, bloating, and stomach discomfort.
8. Foods Containing Artificial Additives
Foods containing artificial additives, such as artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors, can be detrimental to our health. These additives have been linked to a range of health problems, including headaches, digestive issues, and cancer. A study by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences found that consuming artificial additives daily can increase our risk of certain cancers by 15%.
9. Foods High in Cholesterol
Foods high in cholesterol, such as egg yolks, organ meats, and high-fat dairy products, can increase our risk of heart disease and stroke. Consuming high amounts of cholesterol can raise our levels of LDL cholesterol, also known as “bad” cholesterol. A study by the American Heart Association found that consuming foods high in cholesterol daily can increase our risk of heart disease by 10%.
10. Foods Containing MSG
Foods containing monosodium glutamate (MSG), such as processed meats, canned soups, and frozen meals, can lead to adverse reactions, including headaches, nausea, and digestive issues. MSG has also been linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and certain cancers.
READ MORE: Meatless Meal Ideas: Tasty and Nutritious Vegetarian Options