Even if you make it to the gym everyday, following a healthy diet is still important for sustainable weight loss. Moderation is key. You can still enjoy your favorite meals or snack, just remember to not go over board.
Don’t worry, we’re here to help you out! If you’re constantly munching on these foods, it’s probably time to reevaluate your diet plan:
1. Soda
Diet Coke used to be my thing, then I learned that even diet soda is bad for you. Truth is, soda offers no nutritional benefit to your body. The health risks include an increased risk of heart attack, weight gain, and stroke. If that’s not enough for you to call it quits, you may end up throwing off your weight loss goals.
A healthier alternative could be, if you love the taste of carbonated beverages, sparkling water. Toss in a few pieces of your favorite fruit or citrus juice.
2. Fatty Meat
It’s no news to many that red meat has its risk factors. It’s been connected to different types of cancer and an overall shorter life span. So while becoming a vegetarian isn’t for everyone, there are real benefits to cutting back on how much meat you intake. Research has found that replacing one red meat dish a day with a healthier protein option can reduce your risk of dying early by seven to 19 percent.
Next time you’re craving some red meat, try a lean cut of red meat like flank steak, tenderloin, or sirloin instead.
3. Fried Food
Enjoying a few chips is fine as a small treat, but research has found that this snack is the second worst food that’s keeping you fat. French fries were first, of course. Fried foods are usually saturated in fat and heavy on refined carbs so proceed with caution.
If chips are your thing, try a baked option or for some necessary fiber try a baked potato.
4. Alcohol
We hate to say it, but you may have to start cutting back on Happy Hour. Many of the cocktails you choose to consume are your much-needed night out are filled with sugar, which makes it difficult to lose weight — even if you’re watching what you consume.
We’re not saying to wave goodbye to booze all together, just try to make smarter choices. Bloody Marys or mimosas (my personal favorite) are two of the most guilt-free options out there.
Check out these other healthy food swaps to help you with your New Year’s goals.
