7 Fattening Foods to Avoid for Weight Loss and Better Health

If you're on a diet or simply trying to maintain a healthy weight, there are certain foods that are better left off your plate. These foods don’t just contribute to weight gain, but often introduce unhealthy ingredients into your body. Which items should you steer clear of if you want to stay in shape or shed a few pounds? Following is a list of some of the most fattening and unhealthy foods to avoid:

1. Butter and Margarine

They are packed with fat and can raise your cholesterol levels significantly.

2. Sugary Drinks

Sweetened juices, flavored coffees, and energy drinks are loaded with sugar and full of empty calories that can quickly add up.

3. Pizza

Whether homemade or store-bought, pizza often includes sugar-laden sauces, fatty cheeses, and calorie-dense dough. It may be tasty, but it's far from healthy.

4. French Fries and Fried Foods

Fried foods such as fries or fast-food fried chicken, are high in unhealthy fats and calories, and provide little nutritional value.

5. Pastry Dough Products

Avoid foods made with puff pastry, such as malawach, bourekas, and similar baked goods. These items are usually made with butter or margarine and are high in calories.

6. Alcohol

Alcohol is calorie-heavy. Beverages like beer, whiskey, vodka, and liqueurs can easily lead to weight gain when consumed regularly.

7. Processed Meats

Hot dogs, deli meats, and fast-food burgers often contain unhealthy fats and additives. They're particularly problematic if eaten late at night, and they tend to be high in calories with minimal nutritional benefit.

By reducing or eliminating these foods from your diet, you'll be supporting your body in maintaining a healthier weight and avoiding unnecessary calorie overload.