Nutritionist Says Five “Healthy” Foods Can Sabotage Weight Loss

A nutritionist has issued a warning about five “healthy” foods that many dieters rely on that could be sabotaging their weight loss efforts. “It’s a common misconception that all healthy foods are weight loss friendly,” said Guna Bilande of Weight Loss Riga. “While these foods offer significant nutritional benefits, their high calorie content can sometimes work against your weight loss goals.”

Guna said the foods could stop weight loss, noting that while they’re not inherently unhealthy, they may not be the best choices for shedding pounds. While these foods are packed with essential nutrients, eating them in large amounts can lead to unwanted weight gain or hinder weight loss efforts.

Guna emphasized the importance of portion control and being mindful of overall calorie intake.

“Healthy eating is about balance and moderation,” she said. “These foods can and should be included in a balanced diet, but be aware of their calorie content and adjust your portions accordingly.”

Avocado

Avocados are packed with vitamins, minerals and healthy fats, making them a popular choice among health enthusiasts. However, their high calorie content can be a double-edged sword.

“Avocado is rich in nutrients, but it’s also high in calories,” Guna said. “A single avocado can contain around 250 to 300 calories, which can add up quickly if you’re not careful with your portion sizes.”

Olive oil

Olive oil, especially extra virgin olive oil, is praised for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. While it’s a healthier fat option, it’s also high in calories.

“Just one tablespoon of olive oil contains about 120 calories,” explained Guna. “It’s easy to overdo it when cooking or dressing salads, so measuring your portions is essential.”

Nuts and nut butters

Nuts and their butters are rich in protein, fiber and healthy fats. They are a convenient snack and can be an excellent addition to various dishes. However, their calorie content can be deceptively high.

“A handful of nuts can contain about 200 calories, and nut butters can have even more,” Guna said. “Be careful how much you drink, especially if you’re tasting straight from the jar.”

Granola

Granola is often marketed as a health food, full of whole grains, nuts and seeds. However, many commercial granolas are loaded with added sugars and fats, resulting in a high-calorie product.

“Granola can be a hidden calorie bomb,” warned Guna. “Always check labels for sugar content and serving sizes. Consider making your own granola at home to control the ingredients.”

Smoothies

Smoothies can be a great way to pack in fruits, vegetables, and other nutrients. But they can also be high in calories, especially when made with high-sugar fruit, high-fat dairy, and added sweeteners.

“Smoothies can easily become calorie traps,” Guna said. “Use low-sugar fruit, avoid adding extra sweeteners and watch the amount of high-calorie ingredients like nut butters and seeds.”