I know I’ve mentioned this a lot, but diet is SO important when it comes to fat loss. If you’re exercising a lot but don’t have your diet right, you will see limited results (check out my daily diet here).
If you’re eating these foods then you may be slowing down your fat loss progress.
1. Trail mix
Many people think trail mix is healthy, because it’s full of nuts and fruit. Nuts are definitely a great snack as they are high in healthy fats, but they are also high in calories. The dried fruit is packed with sugar and preservatives, and is also very high in calories and carbs.
If you’re looking for a high calorie, high carb, high fat snack then this is a good option. But for most people wanting fat loss, a better option is to have a small handful of natural, unsalted nuts. My favourites are almonds and cashews.
2. Dates
Dates are a great natural alternative to sugar. The problem with dates is that they are very high in calories, carbs and sugar. Three fresh dates is about 1/3 of my daily carb intake!
I know a lot of you are probably thinking that I use a lot of dates in my baking, and this is true. However, I only eat these treats occasionally and will limit myself to 1 or 2.
I’m not suggesting cutting dates out altogether. Just be aware of your carb intake and try not to go overboard with dates.
3. Processed drinks
Many people don’t realise how many calories they’re consuming from processed drinks. Bottled juices, soft drinks, energy drinks, flavoured milks, iced teas, etc are all high in artificial sweeteners, preservatives and added sugar (i.e. carbs!).
If you’re drinking any of these things, then you are definitely slowing down your fat loss progress. Cut them out altogether.
4. Muesli bars
Most muesli bars are processed, full of added sugar and high in calories and carbs, and often fat. The only people who do require high calorie, high carb and high fat snacks are athletes, people trying to bulk and people exercising at very high intensities. This is not most people.
There are some healthy muesli bars out there, but just be sure to read the labels. A better alternative for a high carb snack is natural fruit. Alternatively, you could make your own healthier muesli bars.
5. Healthy cereal
Healthy cereal is pretty much the same as muesli bars. Lots of people think they’re healthy but they’re actually full of sugar and preservatives, and high in calories and carbs.
Not all cereals are bad, but just make sure you read the labels to make sure it is not too high in added sugar and carbs. A better alternative would be oats, or eggs on whole meal toast.
It’s FREE