Nutrition experts generally try to stray away from the concept of “bad” foods to eat, but rather promote sources that benefit the body most. While all foods can fit into a well-balanced diet, limiting these sources can reduce the likelihood of weight gain and optimize health. Reduce these “worst” foods for men and try their more healthful alternative
Worst Foods for Men
1. Juice
Although juice may hold some nutritional value, most types are loaded with added sugars. And considering most people pour large glasses, and well exceeding the recommended 4-ounce (a half cup) juice serving, both sugar and calories are likely to be ample.
Try This: A fresh piece of whole fruit, rich in both fiber and nutrients. Commonly, too, health experts recommend eating calories rather than drinking them. So bite on an apple or peel an orange rather than sipping on its extracted counterpart!
2. Cereal
Despite the presence of some nutritionally-adequate cereals, most are considerably just carb and sugar. Although consuming breakfast may be better than going without altogether, sugary cereals may leave you feeling ravenous within a mere hour or two, as a well-balanced meal should also contain a protein source and potential healthy fats.
Try This: Rather than pouring out bowlful of sugar in the a.m., create your very own homemade granola and feel free to experiment with various ingredients and flavors. Pair with a protein-packed Greek yogurt to offer satiety throughout the morning hours.
3. Muffins
While reaching for a fruit-filled muffin may appear like a fruitful breakfast option, do not let the colors of apples or berries overshadow its high added sugar content. In fact, a blueberry muffin may contain an approximate 38 grams of sugar, matching American Heart Association’s suggested daily limit of 38 grams of added sugar for men!
Try This: If desiring the convenience of a muffin in the morning, opt for a bowl of oatmeal. Their blank canvas can harness a multitude of flavors, including those of a blueberry muffin – throw in fresh blueberries, a dash of cinnamon, and a drizzle of honey. Get inspired with these overnight oat recipes!
4. French Fries
While potatoes can be nutritious, most ordered French fries are merely nothing more than oil and sodium. Dunk into ketchup and other sauces, an exponential sugar content further aligns with their innutritious health profile.
Try This: Try these healthier-for-you sweet potato fries! Baked not fried, the fry variations are rich in fiber, vitamin A, and flavor!
5. Buttered Popcorn
Buttered popcorn is most movie-lovers go-to snack. And even with popcorn promoted as a significant fiber source, dousing it in butter and salt redirects it into a less nutritious path. It is also imperative to not appoint margarine as a healthier butter alternative, as it may contain harmful trans fat.
Try This: Flavor unbuttered popcorn with your favorite seasonings, including these spices. Doing so saves on hundreds of unnecessary calories and fat!
6. Fish Sticks
Although fish is continuously touted for its rich omega-3 fatty acid content, battering and frying them in oil lessens their health appeal. Layer into a bun, and the fish is further overshadowed with unnecessary carbohydrate.
Opt for: Fresh, non-battered fish roasted in the oven or sautéed on the stove top and seasoned with favorite spices. Top onto salad, build fresh fish tacos, or pair with freshly steamed broccoli or other favorite roasted veggies!
7. Nachos
Green lettuce, red tomatoes, and orange peppers… Although the top might appear as a nutritious salad, the superior portion does not validate the mound of chips and processed cheese underneath it!
Try This: A nutritious taco salad, minus the deep fried taco bowl. Start by layering shredded lettuce or other greens along with peppers, onions, jalapeños, and tomatoes. Top with black beans, shredded chicken and/or ground lean beef and garnish with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt, salsa, hot sauce, and fresh cilantro as desired!
