7. Sweets
It’s not just children who love sweets as many grown-ups have a passion for them too. Sweets are readily available and it’s no coincidence that supermarkets stock packets of them next to the till as a temptation. Without careful planning on what you have for breakfast and lunch, the afternoon energy dip can lead to you diving into the confectionary aisle.
SWAP IT
Replace real sweets with natural fruit hits such as dried raisins, apricots, cranberries and sultanas. They taste great and are full of nutritious goodness so you won’t feel deprived.
8. Cooked breakfast
If you regularly consume ‘the full English’ then the pounds will pile on. Even worse if a fry-up is your regular hangover cure because if you add the cost of the calories consumed the night before, then you have double the trouble.
SWAP IT
Eggs are a nutritious filler but you need to opt for the poached or boiled variety to save on calories. Swap traditional pork sausages for a leaner meat such as venison which are just as tasty and a fraction of the fat. If you add lots of grilled tomatoes with a sprinkling of herbs and some seasonal mushrooms, you won’t feel like you’re missing out. Finish off with a slice of granary toast and a scraping of marmalade.
9. Biscuits and cakes
Biscuits and cakes are many people’s nemesis as they tend to be readily available either in the cupboards at home or at work. Whilst these sweet treats give an instant energy hit and you feel satiated afterwards, that feeling does not last very long so you feel flat after only a couple of hours.
SWAP IT
If friends are coming over and you feel you can’t live without a teatime treat, there are healthier alternatives to biscuits and cakes. Try low-fat Hot-Cross buns, malt loaf or reduced fat muffins. Don’t make a habit of these sorts of foods though, try and choose a healthier option so that becomes normal for you.
10. Pizza
Pizza is another dish that my patients struggle with as the combination of dough, cheese and toppings become too irresistible – worst still, they are so convenient for the time poor.
SWAP IT
For a lower calorie option create your own pizza. Spread tomato puree or passata onto wholemeal tortilla wraps; add lower fat mozzarella strips and mushrooms. Top with herbs and then bake in the oven for a quick and easy treat.
Femalefirst Taryn Davies