6 Simple Things You Can Cut Out of Your Diet to Shed Pounds
If you’re trying to lose weight, it can be tempting to adopt a strict diet that involves cutting out entire food groups or drastically reducing calories. However, sometimes the simplest solution is the most effective. By eliminating just a few common foods from your diet, you may be able to jumpstart your weight loss journey. Here are six simple things you can cut out of your diet to shed pounds:
1. Sugary Beverages
Sugary drinks like soda, sports drinks, and sweetened tea or coffee can contain hundreds of calories per serving. Even fruit juices can contain added sugars. Drinking these beverages regularly can quickly add up in terms of calorie intake. Furthermore, these drinks don’t typically contribute to feelings of fullness or satiety, so you may find yourself consuming just as many calories from food as you would have if you had opted for a healthier beverage. Try swapping out sugary drinks for water or sparkling water flavored with a splash of fruit juice.
2. Refined Carbohydrates
Refined carbohydrates like white bread, pasta, and rice have been stripped of their natural fibers and nutrients, leaving behind a high-calorie, low-nutrient food. These foods can cause your blood sugar to spike and then crash, leading to cravings for more high-carbohydrate foods. Instead, opt for whole-grain bread, brown rice, or quinoa, which will keep you feeling fuller for longer and provide your body with nutritious fiber and nutrients.
3. Fried Foods
Fried foods, including French fries, chicken wings, and other appetizers, are often high in calories and fat. Consuming these foods regularly can quickly lead to weight gain. Try healthier alternatives by baking or roasting your favorite foods, like sweet potato fries or chicken wings. Using an air fryer or cooking spray can also help reduce the amount of oil needed to cook these types of foods.
4. Processed Snack Foods
Chips, crackers, cookies, and other processed snack foods are often packed with calories and lacking in nutritional value. These foods are also easy to eat mindlessly, making it easy to consume more calories than your body needs. Try swapping these types of snacks out for healthier options like fresh fruit, vegetables, or nuts, which will provide your body with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
5. High-Fat Meats
Meat can be a healthy part of your diet, but certain cuts of meat are high in fat and calories. For example, bacon, sausage, and certain cuts of beef can contain a significant amount of fat. Try opting for leaner cuts of meat, like chicken breast or ground turkey, to help control your calorie intake. Plant-based protein sources like lentils or tofu can also be good options.
6. Late-Night Snacks
Eating late at night can disrupt your body’s natural rhythm and lead to weight gain. Late-night snacks are typically high in calories and low in nutrients, as well. Additionally, consuming food close to bedtime can interfere with your sleep, leading to further weight gain. If you feel the need to eat a snack before bed, try choosing a small, nutrient-dense option like a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts.
By cutting these common foods from your diet, you may be surprised at how quickly you see results in terms of weight loss. However, it’s important to remember that in order to maintain a healthy weight, you will need to adopt a balanced and sustainable diet that provides your body with the nutrients it needs. Pair these dietary changes with regular exercise and plenty of water, and you’ll be on your way to a healthier, happier you.
