When you’re trying to lose weight, it’s natural to gravitate toward “healthy food” options.
But, just because a food is healthy doesn’t mean it will help you lose weight.
In fact, some of the healthiest foods out there are high in calories and can add extra pounds to your body.Although there are dozens of healthy foods that will cause you to gain weight, here are 7 of the most common.
1. Avocados
Sure, avocados are a healthy fruit filled with vitamins, minerals and beneficial plant compounds.
However, they are also packed with fats which makes them extremely calorie-dense.
Just one large avocado has around 325 calories and 30 grams of fat.
So, you might want to take a pass on those chips and guacamole.
2. Bananas
Although bananas are packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and potassium, they also contain quite a bit of sugar which could contribute to weight gain.
A medium-sized banana has a whopping 110 calories which isn’t going to do any favors to your waist-line.
3. Rice
Rice is a common staple in many people’s diets. It makes sense because not only is it a healthy food filled with magnesium, niacin, and selenium, it’s also low-cost.
But, what many people don’t realize, is that rice is surprisingly calorie-dense and delivers quite a few carbs and calories with each serving.
In fact, just one cup of cooked rice packs a whooping 190 calories and 43 grams of carbs.
So, if you’re trying to lose a few extra pounds, you’re going to have to pass on the RiceARoni.
4. Dried Fruit
Dried fruit is an excellent snack option… if you’re trying to gain weight.
Sure, dried fruit is packed with micronutrients and antioxidants, but it’s also packed with a whole lot of sugar as well. This added sugar is only going to add extra inches to your waist-line.
So, stay away from the raisins, dates, prunes, and figs.
5. Potatoes
You may have always thought that your mom’s mashed potatoes are a healthy way to pack in a few extra nutrients and fiber. Moreover, they are extremely low-cost.
However, the problem with potatoes is that they are packed with starch. In fact, one medium potato contains 163 calories.
6. Applesauce
Apples are packed with vitamin C, soluble fiber and help you feel full longer. Apples are the main ingredient in applesauce, so it makes sense that applesauce is healthy. But, that’s not the case.
Most applesauce is loaded with added sugars and sweeteners that make them addictively sweet – and unhealthy.
If you’re an applesauce addict, stay away from the grocery store brands and make your own so that you can control the ingredients.
7. Ketchup
Although ketchup is low in calories and contains vitamins A and C, it also gets most of its flavor from added salt and sugar.
In addition, a serving size is just one little tablespoon. So, think hard before you squirt that bottle.
Final Thoughts
Just because a food is healthy, doesn’t mean it’s a good choice for losing weight.
Many healthy foods contain loads of extra sugar, starch, carbs, and calories.
So, make sure to understand the entire make-up of the food that you are eating – even if it is considered “healthy.”
