When it comes to maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle, the food you eat plays a crucial impact. In the past, the World Health Organization (WHO) has provided constant guidance on nutrition that can help people to make healthier choices.
Certain foods, though tasty, may have negative consequences for your health if consumed in large quantities. Let’s take a look at the most unhealthy foods that WHO recommends cutting down on to boost your overall health.
Sugary Drinks
Drinks with sugar, like soda-sweetened fruit juices and energy drinks, are loaded with sugars added to them that could result in dental decay, weight gain, and a higher chance of developing diabetes type 2. The WHO suggests that you limit your intake of these drinks and instead opt for teas that are not sweetened water, or natural juices of the fruit.
Processed Meats
Processed meats, such as sausages, bacon, and deli meats tend to be filled with unhealthy fats salt, preservatives, and sodium. Consuming them regularly has been linked to a greater chance of suffering from heart disease, certain cancers, and other chronic illnesses. You should consider replacing them with less-fat slices of meat and plant protein sources.
Fast Food
Fast food is known for its high levels of sodium, trans fats, and calories, as well as deficient in essential nutrients food. Consuming it regularly can cause weight gain, heart disease as well as other health issues. Instead, you can prepare meals at home so that you can regulate the ingredients as well as portions.
Pastries and Sweets
Cookies, pastries, cakes, and candies are stuffed with refined sugars as well as unhealthy fats. They can increase blood sugar levels and lead to energy loss and weight growth. The WHO recommends reducing your intake and opting for healthier snacks like fruits and nuts.
White Bread and Refined Grains
White pasta, white bread as well as other grains that are refined have lost their nutritional value in the process of processing. They can cause sudden spikes in blood sugar and are deficient in the fiber whole grains supply. Moving to whole grains like Whole wheat or brown rice could help your diet greatly.
Salty Snacks
Pretzels, chips, and other salty snacks typically contain a lot of sodium, which contributes to high blood pressure, and raises the chance of developing heart disease. Reduce your consumption of these snacks, and opting for low-sodium alternatives, or making your snacks may be beneficial.
Fried Foods
Fried foods, specifically those that are deep-fried, tend to be filled with unhealthy calories and fats. A regular intake can lead to obesity and clogged arteries. They can also cause heart disease. The WHO suggests baking, grilling, or steaming food instead of cooking it.
Sugary Cereals
A lot of breakfast cereals targeted at kids are loaded with artificial sweeteners and sugars. Start your day with a sugary meal could lead to energy peaks and low concentration. Choose cereals that are high in fiber and free of sugars added, or think about oatmeal that is made with fresh fruit.
Ice Cream
Although the ice cream treat is a cherished dessert, it’s also loaded with sugars and unhealthful fats. A regular intake can cause weight growth and unhealthy dental conditions. It is important to be moderate but there are better alternatives such as frozen yogurt or home-made fruit juices.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcohol is a source of empty calories that can cause excess weight, damage to the liver as well as an increased chance of developing certain cancers. The WHO recommends that you limit your consumption of alcohol to minimize the risk. If you do drink, make sure to take it in moderation and think about a few days without alcohol each week.
Conclusion
Making conscious choices about the foods you eat is vital to keeping your health in good shape. By limiting your intake of these foods that are harmful according to the WHO you will lower the risk of suffering from chronic illnesses and enhance your overall health. Keep in mind that moderation is the key to a healthy lifestyle, and even small changes could yield large health benefits in the long run.