There are many foods that are bad for you, but some are worse than others. Let’s discuss the perils of eating the five most unhealthy foods that many nutritionists say you should avoid at all costs.
1. Hot dogs
Processed meats are full of chemicals and dyes, such as a high level of sodium and the bad kind of saturated fat, and the preservative sodium nitrate that enhances color and flavor.
Eating hot dogs, other processed meats, and red meats regularly increases your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer, rectal cancer, and colorectal cancer.
2. Pretzels
Although they were a popular snack in the 1990s because consumers believed they were fat-free, it turns out that pretzels are pretty much just made up of carbohydrates.
So, if pretzels are full of carbs, just how many nutrients are they lacking? They do not contain any fiber, healthy fat, or protein. All you get from pretzels are carbs and empty calories that do not keep you full.
Instead of pretzels, opt for a high-fiber snack such as nuts. Eating a high amount of fiber and full grains can lower your risk of developing heart disease and type 2 diabetes and improve lipid levels and glycemic control.
3. Diet soda
Although diet sodas are free of carbs, they are rich in chemicals. The artificial sweeteners in diet soda can trigger insulin production, which can cause you to gain weight. Do not be fooled by the “zero calories” label and think it won’t impact your weight or throw off your diet.
Diet soda can also increase your risk of developing metabolic syndrome more than regular soda. Rather than drinking diet or regular soda, give sparkling water a try.
4. Store-bought pastries
Supermarket pastries may have a long shelf life, and this may be appealing because you will have more time to enjoy these sweets slowly, but this is not a good thing. Processed pastries are full of chemicals and artificial ingredients like refined sugar, refined wheat flour, and trans fats (sometimes labeled as hydrogenated oils in order to sneak past the trans fat ban). Trans fat increases your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and sudden death due to heart problems.
5. Bright orange chips
Fried cheese puff snacks are loaded with artificial coloring, chemicals, and salt. Try sprinkling turmeric on air-popped popcorn as a healthy substitute for those bright orange gut bombs.
Of course, there are other foods that are not good for your health. Speak to your doctor or nutritionists about dietary changes you should make to ensure that you’re receiving the proper nutrition.
