Foods to Avoid

Limiting calorie consumption can have a very positive impact on your waistline. Steer clear of these foods to help you stay on track.

• Limit high-calorie-dense foods, like cookies, potato chips, baked goods, and crackers, which provide less satiety per calorie than foods high in water or fiber. Choose healthier snacks, such as carrots with hummus or sliced apples dipped in yogurt.

• Limit high-calorie beverages – soft drinks, milk shakes, alcoholic beverages, and even some fruit juices. These beverages have a significant amount of sugar and/or fat. Instead, aim to drink eight to ten glasses of water a day.

• Limit the amount of refined fats and oils in your diet. Prepare foods using lower-fat cooking methods, such as baking, broiling, or grilling. When sautéing, use broth or add only one tablespoon of oil for every four people.

• Limit sugar and refined starches, which are usually made with white flour and are low in fiber. Try sugar substitutes or sugar-free products.

• Avoid skipping meals. If you do, you will more likely eat more at your following meal, which will increase your calorie intake.