1 / 12The World Health Organization (WHO) has time and again raised red flags on certain foods and drinks we consume on a daily basis, highlighting how they can negatively impact our health in the long run. This is not just about alcohol, but about a lot of foods that one may think are staple. Beware as these daily consumption items, could harm your health in the long term. (Image: Shutterstock)
2 / 12In this day and age, prioritising fitness and nutrition is critical to maintaining overall mental and physical well-being. However, we are constantly surrounded by tempting yet unhealthy food options. While it always seems like these foods taste the best, it is very essential to commit to a balanced and nutrient-rich diet. Here’s a list of 10 unhealthy foods that you avoid or consume in moderation to lead a healthy lifestyle. (Image: Shutterstock)
3 / 12No 1. Sugar | Sugar is one of the most important causes of obesity and diabetes worldwide and also puts a lot of stress on your liver, pancreas, and digestive system. It is not bad to consume sugar but to consume it in moderation. (Image: Shutterstock)
4 / 12No 2. Fried Foods | Fried foods are high in calories, salt, and unhealthy fats, which lead to several diseases, including heart disease. (Image: Reuters)
5 / 12No 3. Pasta and Bread | Refined carbohydrates are one of the unhealthiest foods in the world, which is commonly found in white bread, pasta, and sugary snacks and causes spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels. One should avoid refined grains and try consuming whole foods. Add healthy carbs to your diet, like brown rice, barley, and millet, to cut down on your craving for unhealthy foods. (Image: Reuters)
6 / 12No 4. Coffee | Coffee is rich in Caffeine that causes several problems, including headaches, depression, insomnia, high blood pressure, fatigue, etc. Caffeine overdose raises the risk of heart disease and causes digestive issues. So, it is best to stay away from them or regulate their consumption. (Image: Shutterstock)
7 / 12No 5. Salt | Salt is a necessary nutrient the body requires to regulate its fluid balance, maintain heart rhythm, conduct nerve impulses, and contract muscle. On the other hand, consuming too much salt might cause hypertension and cardiovascular issues. Foods that are high in sodium include pickled meat, canned and tinned goods, highly salted breakfast cereals, buns, cakes, and pastries, as well as packed soups and sauces.
8 / 12No 6. Potato Chips | Avoid processed snacks like chips and microwave popcorn as they are high in unhealthy fats, salt and calories. (Image: Reuters)
9 / 12No 7. Bacon and Sausages | Processed meats like bacon and sausages are high in sodium and nitrates which are linked to increased cancer risk. Furthermore, during digestion, nitrates convert into nitrites, which can then produce nitrosamine — a highly dangerous toxin that causes cancer. (Image: Reuters)
10 / 12No 8. Palm oil | Palm oil is unhealthy as it is high in saturated fat, which contributes to heart diseases, high cholesterol, and other chronic health conditions. (Image: Reuters)
11 / 12No 9. Burger and Pizza | Junk foods like burgers and pizza are the hot favourites amongst the current generation. Avoid these food items as they contain plenty of calories, which can lead to weight gain. Apart from this, factors like unhealthy cooking conditions and inadequate quality checks add to the hazardous nature of junk foods.
12 / 12No 10. Cheese | Full-fat dairy products like cheese contain saturated and trans fats, which can be harmful to your health. These items can contribute to heart disease and obesity. Instead, consume unflavoured, reduced-fat dairy products. (Image: Shutterstock)
