Think you can’t have too much of a good thing? Think again. We all know ultra-processed food can be bad but did you know that there’s a sliding scale of the foods you should avoid playing a regular recurring role in your diet?

Let’s break this down (and possibly break a few hearts in the process).

 

1. Processed Meat

According to nutritionists, you are doing your body a disservice when you consume meat that has been processed. The reason for this is because processed meat contains a high ratio of sodium and saturated fats, which isn’t a good type of fat either. Processed meat also contains preservatives and other chemicals for flavoring and color.

Basically, most of what you are going to be biting into is cheap meat with a high level of sodium. Processed meat is also associated with diabetes mellitus and coronary heart disease.

Are you pondering having a hotdog today? You might want to reconsider that one.

 

2. Sugary Donuts

We know it’s hard to resist the sweet, sugary deliciousness that is a warmed cinnamon donut but when it comes to the nutritional value of donuts, however, there is little to none.

What you are getting with one donut are an extremely high amount of sugar, added fats and refined flour. It really is a carb party and everyone invited is a bad influence on your body.

If you’re struggling to keep the weight off then definitely drive past that donut shop and stop at the fruit stand instead.

 

3. Pizza

We’re sorry to say it but yes, pizza is one of the foods you should be avoiding. Cue tears.

We know pizza is the perfect snack for movie nights or outings but when you look at its nutritional value, you might change your mind about ordering your next slice.

Pizza dough is made from refined flour and has ingredients that are high in saturated fats and salt. Eating too much pizza can increase cholesterol levels in your body. You are also going to put your cardiovascular health at risk for diseases and type 2 diabetes.

 

4. Pretzels

Pretzels are a fun snack to munch on but have you really considered how unhealthy they might be? If you thought, ‘sure, too much salt’, congrats, you win a prize! A healthy liver to be exact. 

Pretzels contain 20% of your daily sodium intake in just one serving! Yikes. Too much salt leads to water retention, bloating and heart disease.

 

5. Noodles

Instant noodles are great because they are so easy to prepare. However, when you see the word ‘instant’, that’s your big hint to steer clear because when something’s made instantly it’s usually stripped of all good nutrients.

 

Looking for a meal-prepped alternative to these super-processed treats? Find out more about our healthy, ready-made meals at hello@heartyhealth.com.au