Some common foods that we include in our diet on a daily basis could be causing more harm than good. Now, incorporating these foods is OK however, it all comes down to frequency and portion size. Here are a few common foods that may be sabotaging your diet…
Coffee – Some of you might have heard of the beneficial properties of coffee that are largely due to the phytonutrients found in coffee beans. Phytonutrients are the naturally occurring chemicals found in most plant based foods. The antioxidant properties of phytonutrients help them promote health. Coffee, however, contains caffeine which is believed to cause an increase in blood pressure. Although this increase is only temporary, repeated elevations in blood pressure could increase a person’s risk of heart disease. More evidence is needed to investigate that though. Furthermore, caffeine is a diuretic (i.e. makes you urinate more) that can lead to an increase in fluid losses from your body. It is also a stimulant drug, where if consumed in large amounts, can make people anxious or cause headaches.
Energy Drinks – Energy drinks are carbonated beverages than contain a mix of caffeine, sugars and stimulants such as guarana. The promising boost of energy is short lived hence the over indulgence; you end up drinking more. The high caffeine concentration of energy drinks can lead to side effects such as nervousness, insomnia, rapid heart beat and increased blood pressure. Also, when adding energy drinks to alcohol, you could be asking for more trouble as energy drinks can disguise the feeling of intoxication, which may lead to heavier drinking. Energy drinks that contain sugar can also contribute to weight gain!
Fruit Juices – 100% Fruit juices are often packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that contribute to good health. However, the sugar concentration in juices is the concern. The juicing process can make the sugars more readily accessible to our body. This high concentration of sugar can have a weight boosting effect. Juices can also replace a number of other healthy alternatives especially in a child’s diet such as water. The healthier alternative – Fresh fruit! Packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fibre!
Alcohol – Alcoholic drinks are generally high in calories and depending on the type of drink, alcohol can add a significant amount of energy to your daily intake. They also provide carbohydrate, mainly in the form of sugars. Some studies have shown that moderate alcohol consumption (around half a standard drink a day) may provide health benefits for some by reducing the risk of some types of heart disease. However, the evidence behind the downfalls associated with alcohol consumption outweighs its benefits. Risk of developing health problems such as liver cirrhosis (destruction of your liver) and some cancers becomes greater with increased consumption.
Granola & Nut bars – Snack bars can be convenient, however, the sugar and fat content of these bars could add to the extra calories that you might not need! Nuts do provide us with healthy fats but can be calorie dense in large quantities. Also, commonly added sugars such as molasses, maltose, honey, syrup or dried fruit do add up to the energy value of these bars. As a guide, use the 100g column of the nutrition information panel to compare products. Aim for less than 10g/100g of total fats and less than 25g/100g of total sugars.
Other foods that you need to be wary of include processed meats such as salami, pepperoni and sausages. Such foods can he high in saturated fats and salt which, in excess, can lead to high cholesterol levels in our blood. Bottom line is, be smart about the choices you make. Moderation and balance form the backbone of a healthy diet.
Dolphin Solutions
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