10 “Diet” Foods to Avoid at All Costs

Be wary.

Choosing foods based on the “diet” label may seem like the healthy way to go, but don’t base your choices solely on the label! Be wary of the following 10 “diet” foods to avoid at all costs.

1. Sugar-Free Sweets

We all know refined sugars are bad for us, but sugar-free sweets aren’t necessarily any better. Often, they contain added fat. Make sure you read nutrition labels for a thorough understanding of what’s in your food.

2. Artificial Sweeteners

They may be low in calories, but research indicates that artificial sweeteners leave you less satiated, meaning that your brain keeps pumping out signals of hunger. This encourages overeating.

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3. Diet Soda

Ironically, research suggests that diet soda leads to weight gain rather than weight loss. Skip the soda altogether. Check out these Flavored Water recipes to enjoy this summer.

4. Trail Mix

Fruit and nuts – the perfect diet snack option, right? That would be the case if not for the massive salt content and unhealthy oils often used in the production of trail mix. Your best bet is to make your own mix using dried fruits and raw nuts.

5. Light Salad Dressings

When it comes to premade salad dressings, less fat often means more sugar. Plus, the lack of fat may actually inhibit your body from absorbing important nutrients from the vegetables in your salad. As is often the case, making your own is the healthiest way. See our 3 Easy Vinaigrette recipes.

6. Flavored Yogurt

Yogurt can be a very healthy part of your diet, but it can also be a hidden source of sugar. Check the nutrition label on your yogurt. You can avoid added sugars by eating plain yogurt; if desired, sweeten with a bit of honey.

7. Baked Veggie Chips

Premade chips are often loaded with salt. You can control salt content by baking your own! Check out this Kale Chip recipe.

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8. Fast Food Smoothies

How can you go wrong with blended fruit? Sadly, when buying premade smoothies, you’re likely subjecting yourself to a ton of added sugar. Blend up your own clean smoothie instead.

9. Microwave Popcorn

Oils, salt, and sketchy chemicals in the bag make this convenient go-to a no-go. Air-popped is the way to go.

10. Rice Cakes

Rice cakes are high on the glycemic index, meaning they cause spikes in blood sugar and insulin.

So now you know what to avoid; now let’s talk about all the healthy ingredients you can enjoy! The Skinny Ms. Recipe Collection eBook contains 101 mouth-watering healthy recipes. Like us on Facebook and Pinterest for a constant fresh supply of clean-eating ingredients.

Sources:
Fitness Magazine
Reader’s Digest

This post may include affiliate links.

SkinnyMs.

The SkinnyMs. team believes that all people, regardless of age, size, and fitness level, have the power to transform their lives — they just need the resources to do so. The SkinnyMs. method promotes healthy living through a combination of clean eating and regular exercise. We offer everything you need to be successful.

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