Do you diet and exercise regularly, but still struggle with stubborn, unwanted
fat? Take a good look
at what you’re eating. Unfortunately, some of the highly touted
“health foods” actually serve little nutritional purpose.
If you eat these foods, you could unknowingly be sabotaging yourself!
Check out this list of five foods that you might think are healthy choices, but actually aren’t.
1. PROTEIN OR ENERGY BARS
Protein and energy bars make tempting claims: increased energy, low in calories, ideal to take on the go, etc. Truthfully, many bars have the nutritional profile of a candy bar: high fructose corn syrup, sugar and saturated fat. They may also be high in carbohydrates. If you need a quick pre-workout snack, avoid energy bars and reach for a handful of almonds or a piece of string cheese.
2. SUSHI
Sushi is packed with white rice and very little pieces of fish. White rice is a high glycemic food, meaning that it promotes a rapid increase in blood sugar and insulin, followed by a quick drop that makes you hungrier. If you’re going out for sushi, opt for sashimi instead, which is plain fish without the rice. Add a side of edamame.
3. DIET SODA
Many dieters stock up on diet soda because it doesn’t have any calories. It does, however, have artificial sweeteners that may confuse the body. Research has shown that the more diet sodas a person drinks, the greater their chances of becoming overweight. When you find yourself craving the sweet fizz of a soda, try club soda or a naturally flavored seltzer.
4. SMOOTHIES
Smoothie bars are part of the health food craze and have become a staple in many gyms. Though most smoothies offer a blend of fruit and a dairy mixer, they are often supplemented with added sugar, sherbet or ice cream, which turns the health food into a gluttonous dessert. Make your own smoothies at home, so you can control the ingredients and portion size. Stick to recipes that are mostly fruit with very few “add-ons.”
5. TURKEY AND OTHER PACKAGED LUNCH MEATS
Turkey and other lunch meats are low-calorie options and great sources of protein; unfortunately, many are also laden with sodium. Look for low-sodium brands or, better yet, roast your own turkey or ham and slice the meat to use for sandwiches.
COULD YOUR BODY USE SOME FINE-TUNING?
If you avoid these foods and make better dietary choices, yet still aren’t seeing the body sculpting results you desire, Los Angeles plastic surgeon Dr. David Sayah can help. He uses advanced liposuction techniques to sculpt common problem areas such as the stomach, hips, thighs, buttocks and upper arms. He can help you achieve your ideal body makeover to complement your healthy lifestyle.
If you would like to learn more about your liposuction options, please book an informational consultation with Dr. Sayah. Call (310) 984-1150 to make your appointment.