5 So-Called ‘Healthy’ Foods That Can Actually Cause Weight Gain

Are you eating healthy and exercising but finding it difficult to lose weight? Believe it or not, it could be the type of food you’re eating. Some seemingly healthy foods are actually anything but — and they could be sabotaging your weight loss efforts.

Here are five so-called healthy foods that can cause weight gain, according to the weight-loss team at Central Clinic in Spring Hill, Florida

1. Smoothies

If you buy a smoothie at a gym or smoothie place, chances are it’s full of sugar and unnatural ingredients. They may contain high-sugar protein powders, frozen fruit juices, and flavored frozen yogurt.

The only way to have a healthy smoothie is to make one at home. You can use unsweetened milk or plant-based milk, whole foods such as vegetables, and a small amount of fresh fruit to add sweetness.

Even if you make them at home, be careful not to go overboard. If you’re drinking multiple smoothies per day, you’re probably consuming too much sugar.

2. Meatless burgers

You may think meatless burgers are a healthier option than actual meat, but this isn’t necessarily the case. While some use simple plant ingredients, many meatless patties are now made to resemble a real burger. This means all of the ingredients are highly processed.

These burgers may also contain soy or gluten, which can cause inflammation and digestive upset in some people. They also could be high in calories, salt, and saturated fat. If you eat meatless burgers for ethical reasons, read the labels to know what’s in them.

3. Trail mix

Unless you’re hiking for many miles, you probably don’t need to eat trail mix. Yes, it can be healthy if you mix your nuts, seeds, and a few dried fruits, but even a small serving packs a lot of calories. If you don’t burn off these calories, you gain weight. It’s that simple.

Also, watch out for store-bought trail mixes containing candy or dried fruit made with added sugars.

4. Salads with high-fat dressing

If you’re eating salads every day but still gaining weight, take a look at your salad dressing. If you’re using store-bought dressing, it’s probably full of unhealthy oils, sugar, salt, food colorings, and maybe even high-fructose corn syrup. Measure the portion size carefully, so you know just how many calories you’re adding to your salad.

5. Granola

Many of the granola cereals and granola bars in conventional grocery stores are full of butter, white sugar, salt, vegetable oil, high-fructose corn syrup, molasses, or honey. This type of granola is full of calories and could be causing you to gain weight. 

Read the labels carefully and watch your portion sizes if you can't live without granola. Or find a recipe you like online and make your own.

It’s eye-opening, isn’t it? The more you know, the better food choices you can make. To learn more about our weight-loss programs, request an appointment online or over the phone at our Spring Hill, Florida, office.