Five Foods to Sidestep for a Healthier You

Did you know the average American consumes about 152 pounds of sugar in a year, much of which comes from liquid calories? Sugar-sweetened beverages are a big threat to our health. While they taste amazing, these drinks like soda, fruit juices, and energy drinks are high in calories and low in nutritional value. They are often linked with obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and tooth decay. Even drinks labeled as "low sugar" or "diet" options are harmful as they feature artificial sweeteners contributing to weight gain and poor health. To start a healthier journey, consider replacing these beverages with water or green tea.

Processed Meats: The Convenience that Carries Consequences

Processed meats such as hot dogs, cold cuts, bacon, and sausages have made our lives easier but at a significant drawback. Typically high in saturated fats, calories, and sodium, these foods are often preserved with harmful chemicals, such as nitrates and nitrites, which have been linked with various cancers. The World Health Organization labels them as carcinogens, thus underlining their risk. In the pursuit of healthier choices, switch to lean meats, fish, or plant-based proteins instead.