Obesity is classified by the AMA (American Medical Association) as an existing disease. Over sixty-six percent (66%) of Americans over the age of twenty (20) are overweight, followed by over thirty-three percent (33%) classified as obese. In the past thirty-five years, obesity in the world has doubled.
What foods make us gain weight?
In order to overcome the obesity rates which are becoming rampant in the world, it is important to know which foods add to this dilemma. Here are some of the culprits which are causing havoc on the nation and the world.
1. Artificial Sweeteners -Artificial sweeteners abound in lower calorie foods including diet sodas. They have less calories along with less sugar, but the body still reacts to the “sweetness” driving insulin levels up, according to research studies. Individuals who drink at least two diet sodas a day may increase their waistlines by six times the norm.
2. White Sugar – Consuming white sugar can sabotage any weight loss regime as it increases the craving for sweets. The substance does not contain any sort of vitamins or minerals, but helps the body to pack on the pounds through continuous “sugar addictions.”
3. Cheese – Cheese contains a large portion of fat, and it is also hard for the body to digest. When digestion delays, the body suffers. Fat holds nine calories/gram. Protein and carbs hold four calories/gram.
4. Gluten-Rich Foods – Many foods which are processed as “gluten-free” products are packed with sugars and starches. Understanding how to read nutritional labels will be an eye-opening experience for those who consume large amounts of processed gluten-free products.
5. Potatoes – According to medical studies, all forms of potatoes are considered fattening. Interestingly, one study finds eating one serving of fries can cause a weight gain of over three pounds. The same research project found eating one serving of potato chips can cause a weight gain of just under two pounds.
6. White Carbohydrates – White carbs which come from white rice, white bread, and starches increases the glycemic index. In other words, they will cause weight gain for many people. In order to lower body fat, choosing brown carbs is best which come from natural foods and whole grains.
7. Oils and Fats – Calorie content of oils and fats equals one hundred twenty (120) calories in each tablespoon. Even olive oil contains a lot of calories although it is healthier for the body.
8. Alcohol Consumption – Consumption of alcohol increases the release of cortisol in the body. The hormone breaks down the muscle and increases fat retention. According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, individuals who drink two servings of vodka during one hour suffer from a decrease in fat metabolism by three-fourths (or nearly 75%). Drinking alcohol dehydrates the body of fluids needed to burn fat stores.
9. Processed Foods – Processed foods do not contain any form of usable nutrients for the body to operate, let alone to lose weight naturally. Even “diet meals” are not healthy, and they are loaded with sodium content. The more an individual eats, the more water retention there will be. One research study in London found individuals who consume processed foods on a regular basis suffer from an increasing risk of depression.
10. Processed Meats – Processed meats are high in fats, sodium content, and calories. This meat list includes lunch meats, hot dogs, sausage, and bacon. Over half of the calories from bacon come in the form of fat. Each one-ounce serving also provides thirty milligrams of cholesterol to the body. The American Institute for Cancer Research strongly endorses the avoidance of processed meats for safe eating.
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