Types of Food to Avoid In a Slimming Diet

Here you'll discover some types of foods you may think harmless but which can often prevent you from losing the extra weight.

Reviewed and approved by the pedagogue in physical education and nutritionist Elisa Morales Lupayante.

Written by Okairy Zuñiga

Last update: 15 December, 2022

When starting a slimming diet, it’s common to only focus on what you can eat. However, it’s essential to consider there are some types of food you must avoid when dieting.

Having this knowledge will help you make better choices when planning your weekly menu or when you dine out. Do you want to know more about it? Continue reading, then.

Today’s article contains a list of the types of food to skip when dieting so as not to sabotage your weight loss plan. 

Four types of food to avoid in a slimming diet

It isn’t healthy to deprive yourself of something you like forever so if you crave any of the types of food on this list at any given time then, eat a small portion. As you can see, it’s ok to enjoy them occasionally, just do so in moderation.

1. Potato chips

This is one of the types of food you should skip when following a slimming diet s they’re high in saturated fats and carbohydrates.

They’re so addictive it’s difficult to eat them in moderation, so it’s best to avoid cooking them regularly.

You should avoid those that have gone through a deep frying process such as:

• Potato chips
• French fries
• Chips containing large quantities of salt or other flavorings

Some studies reveal that eating French fries can affect your overall health and increase your weight in a very short time.

You don’t have to stop eating potatoes altogether. In fact, you can enjoy them boiled, steamed, and baked, in moderate amounts, along with chicken, fish, and vegetables.

Keep in mind that potatoes are rich in carbohydrates and thus, provide energy. Thus, try to eat them during the day and, above all, before exercising.

There’ll be a time in which you’ll be dying to eat potato  chips so indulge yourself. It’s always better to bake your own. You can flavor them with spices for new flavors. However, just add salt and pepper if you prefer something more traditional. You’ll get the same effect yummy treat with fewer calories and health risks.

2. Industrially processed snacks (rich in carbohydrates)

Avoid foods high in carbs in a slimming diet. This includes cookies, rice cakes, cereal, cereal bars, bread, etc.

Although they are very easy and cheap alternatives, they contain many simple sugars that can cause glucose alterations. Industrial cookies are the most common example of it.

These are rich in carbohydrates and sugars and can lead to weight gain so if not consumed in moderation.

Besides, this kind of food will fill you for a short time but you’ll soon be hungry again and eat things that have zero nutritional value (such as fruit, for example).

Ideally, try to satisfy your mid-morning and mid-afternoon cravings with wholesome foods. These usually contain a significant amount of fiber, carbohydrates, and protein. Some of the best options are:

• Low-calorie cheese and fruit
• An apple with peanut butter
• Yogurt, oat flakes, and almonds

3. Custards, puddings, and such

Avoid any of these, especially the industrial ones, in a slimming diet. Even those labeled as “light” are full of questionable substances.

For one, custards, puddings, and such usually contain large quantities of added sugar. Thus, try not to eat them regularly, especially not as part of a slimming diet. Moderation is key and make your own light ones if possible.

4. Types of food to avoid – white bread, cookies, and so on

The final type of food to avoid if you’re trying to lose weight is anything that’s based on refined flours. White bread usually contains high levels of sugar, which alters  blood glucose .

This is because food made with highly processed refined flours contain very little fiber, if at all. It’s for this reason that even consuming only two slices of white bread a day can increase your risk of obesity.

Thus, try to select whole-grain options when you crave bread or pastries. These are less common and it’s an acquired taste for some but are way healthier.

Ideally, try to make your own desserts at home using whole-wheat flour, seeds, and dark chocolate. This way you can honor the craving without gaining weight or putting your health at risk.

Industrial beverages

Industrial beverages (sodas, flavored waters, teas, beer, etc) are another element you must skip if you’re trying to maintain optimal weight.

Also, try to avoid commercially packaged specialty coffees, juices, and any other mix that may have a large number of refined sugars.

This is because the excessive consumption of sugary drinks skyrockets weight gain. Thus, it’s important that children and adults avoid them as much as possible.

Your best option is to always carry a bottle of fresh water with you. Opt for homemade infusions made with fruit, cinnamon or mint if you need flavor.

Also, make your own coffee and bring it along so as to not fall for machine coffee. This isn’t only the best way to control your sugar intake but also guarantees coffee quality.

Perhaps this article will help you take into account the types of food to avoid in order to succeed in your weight loss efforts.