When it comes to dieting, many people assume that cutting out certain foods, or sticking to a strict meal plan is the key to weight loss. While this may seem like a good idea, focusing on what you shouldn’t eat rather than what you should, could cause you to miss out on important nutrients as well as many benefits of certain foods. By incorporating certain foods that are enjoyable you are more likely to stick to your diet and continuing eating healthy. This can ultimately lead to weight loss and a healthier you. Here are 7 different foods that are surprisingly healthy and you might be cutting out:
1.Bread: Carbohydrates are all about energy. The body uses carbs to produce glucose, the main source of energy. Bread is high in carbohydrates, and eating a sandwich with grilled chicken, or turkey lettuce and tomato is not necessarily a bad thing. Eating a healthy sandwich for lunch puts you on the right track to losing weight. However, look for breads that have a good source of of whole grains and are rich in protein and fiber rather than settling with a white bread.
2. Eggs: People who are trying to lose weight or eat healthier often cut out eggs due to their cholesterol content. It can be a mistake to avoid them. Many other factors in a person’s diet raise cholesterol levels. Eggs contain vitamin B-12, an important nutrient. Eggs are a good source of protein when taken in at the right increments. Consider mixing one egg with two egg whites; this allows you to get the nutrients from the yolk while still cutting down on the fat content.
3.Nuts: It is common knowledge that nuts are fattening, however they neglect the fact that they are an extremely good source of protein, and contain healthy fats. While nuts can be fattening when you eat too many, cutting them out of your diet completely is not a good idea. Portion them out and enjoy!
4.Dairy: Many people assume that dairy products, such as milk and cheese are unhealthy and should be avoided, however dairy products are a good source of protein and potassium. American’s generally don’t receive enough potassium, and dairy is a very good choice. Limit your amount of cheese and milk, but do not cut it out of your diet!
5.White Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are given much credit for being a super-food, making white potatoes seem useless and unhealthy. However, this is not necessarily true. White potatoes are a good source of fiber and potassium, and are not high in calories. Its the way they are prepared that can make them unhealthy. Opt for a baked potato rather than french fries.
6. Pasta: Pasta does not cause you to gain weight, overeating pasta does. Serving sizes with any foods can help add extra pounds, but once again carbs are necessary and are found in pasta. Eat pasta as a side dish with some olive oil and veggies to limit your calorie intake.
7.Indulgences: Cutting every enjoyable food out of your diet is setting yourself up for failure and turning healthy eating into a chore rather than a better lifestyle. Alcohol and sweets are not going to ruin your diet, unless you over do it. When drinking alcohol alternate water in between each drink, and if you’re craving something sweet, share a dessert or go for something smaller.