Sugar & Weight Loss - 5 Foods To Avoid
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Not every so-called "healthy" food is as healthy as it appears and sounds. Surprisingly, there are several seemingly wholesome choices that harbor a considerable amount of sugar. Here are five foods I've discovered that may catch you off guard:
OATMEAL Traditional oatmeal serves as a healthier alternative to sugary cereals, but tread carefully in choosing the right type. Flavored instant oats can be sugar-packed, while plain oatmeal typically contains none. Opt for the latter and enhance it with berries, cinnamon, or nuts for a nutritious and flavorful breakfast.
PROTEIN BARS While protein bars might seem like a convenient fuel source, some are loaded with as much sugar as a candy bar! Be discerning when selecting a bar—aim for one with less than 10 grams of sugar, ideally boasting over 15 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber per serving. Alternatively, opt for a nut bar, a closer-to-real-food choice than some processed bars.
YOGURT Despite its popularity as a health food, many yogurt options in the refrigerator aisle are sugar-rich. Choose plain, low-fat or 0% Greek yogurt and elevate its taste with fresh berries, nut butters, or seeds. If you crave pre-flavored options, consider Elli's Quark or the delicious Siggi's Skyr.
SALAD DRESSING It's easy to assume a salad is a healthy choice, but dressing can sabotage your efforts with extra calories and added sugar. Scrutinize labels when shopping, or experiment with homemade dressings using extra-virgin olive oil, herbs, and citrus juice or vinegar.
DRIED FRUIT Dried fruit may seem like a convenient substitute for fresh, but it often packs more sugar without the filling water content found in fresh varieties. For instance, a 1/4-cup of dried cranberries can contain as much as 29 grams of sugar! When craving fruit, opt for the freshness of whole fruits or explore the crunch of freeze-dried berries instead.
