4 Hidden Food Traps And How To Avoid Them

Guiding yourself through your weight-loss or healthy-eating journey can be challenging, especially when there are hundreds of food traps waiting to derail from your path.

Pre-planning your meals can help you stay on your healthy eating course. It’s always smart to keep your eye out for hidden food traps that can be the cause of potential diet detours for you. Eating healthy isn't always easy, but when you know how to make good choices – even when it seems like an impossible task – you'll be able to walk away satisfied and with your healthy diet still on track. Read on to learn about the four most common food traps and how to avoid them.

Be Careful About Your Salads

You may have the best intentions when choosing the salad bar, but what you top your greens with can make or break your diet. Choosing to eat a plate full of vegetables is definitely a great choice, but there are many unhealthy additions that can ruin a good thing. Add a few sunflower kernels or almonds for protein and healthy fats instead of the croutons and sesame sticks, which have little to no nutritional value. If you want something sweet, choose grapes or fresh berries instead of raisins or dried cranberries, which can add considerably more calories and sugar. Avoid fat-free or even low-fat dressings – they are often loaded with sugar and other unnecessary additives.

Vending Machines At Office

We've all been there, hanging around the office vending machine to either pick up a candy bar or a packet of salty chips. But think twice before committing that sin, that quick jolt of energy from the refined carbohydrates fades quickly and you're left with an energy slump and an empty stomach for the rest of the day. You can go for roasted almonds, peanuts, sunflower kernels or a snack bar to satiate your hunger.

All-You-Can-Eat Buffets

Eating at buffets makes you vulnerable to various food traps present among the mile-long selection of dishes. To avoid these hidden food traps, it’s important to browse through the entire buffet before filling your plate up. Try keeping your portions small and choose the right foods. Keep away from the decorative, calorie dense and non-nutritious food. Opt for fruits, sautéed veggies and lean protein in measured portions.

Smoothies As A Health Drink

It’s a great idea to incorporate smoothies in your diet, but they can also hide an unhealthy amount of sugar – sometimes, up to 70 grams or more. That amount of sugar, even when it comes from fruit, has a negative impact on your body. Make sure you choose fruits or veggies with a low glycaemic index to keep the sugar content in check.