What are the hidden calories in common foods?
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle in today's world can be difficult. It is especially true in the case of hidden calories found in everyday foods. This article will teach you how to identify hidden calories, as well as some tips to navigate the challenge.
Discovering hidden calories is important
Sugars and fats can cause weight gain, and even other health problems. A study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that the average American consumes 3,400 mg of sodium a day. This is much more than the daily limit recommended of 2,300 mg. The excess sodium in restaurant and processed foods can cause high blood pressure.
How to Start: Find Hidden Calories
Start by learning about nutrition. Understand the meaning of food labels. Reduced fat does not always mean lower calorie. You could be eating hidden sugars, which add to your calories. According to a study in the Journal of Marketing Research , people tend to consume more calories when the foods they eat are perceived as healthier.
Example of foods with hidden calories
- Processed Meat: Sausages, hot dogs and other processed meats often have high amounts of salt and fat hidden in them.
- Fruit Juice: Although fruit juices seem natural and healthy, they are often loaded with sugars that contribute to calorie intake.
- Even commercially-produced whole grain breads can have hidden sugars or fats.
- Salads are healthy but dressings often contain a lot of calories because they're high in sugars and fats.
- Yogurts: Many flavoured yogurts contain sugars that make them more caloric than they appear.
- Granola Bars Despite the healthy appearance, these bars are often high in fats and sugars.
- Sushi: The rice in sushi can be seasoned with salt and sugar, which adds extra calories.
- Pasta Sauces: Most store-bought sauces for pasta are loaded with sugars and salt.
- Smoothies in restaurants and stores often have added sugars, high-calorie ingredients such as ice cream or yogurt with full-fat.
- Specialty Coffee Drinks can be high in sugar, calories, and fat from the syrups, whipped cream, and other ingredients.
More Tips and Suggestions
Consider other factors, such as portion size. In a study in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, it was found that Americans tend to underestimate their caloric intake due to larger servings. Try using smaller bowls and plates, and make sure to check the serving size on labels. Regular physical activity can also help you balance your caloric intake.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you want to know if there are hidden calories, it's important that you read and understand food labels. You should also be aware of marketing tactics which may mislead consumers. These strategies will help you better control your caloric intake and keep a healthy diet.
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