Tricky Dieting

Have you ever thought to yourself, "I've been on a diet for 3 weeks now and I haven't lost a single gram", well maybe you're doing some of the following diet- don'ts..

1. Diet sodaSoda is never good for you, but diet sodas create more insulin in your body, which means more sugar. Diet soda also inhibits the hormone leptin, which regulates your metabolism and appetite. Try a glass of water with your meal instead.

2. PretzelsYou may think they’re better than potato chips, but they’re made with enriched white flour and loaded with carbohydrates, a big diet no-no.

3. Fruit juicesThese can contain high amounts of sugar. And depending on the brand, some may only have 5 percent natural fruit juice. Eat your fruits rather than drink them. Two servings of citrus a day provides your body with D-Limonene, which has been shown to promote the detoxification of estrogen.

4. Salad kitsSalad dressings can add hundreds of calories and more fat than you need to consume in one day. Lighter varieties are better.

5. Reduced-fat peanut butterA reduced-fat version seems like a great idea, but the fat that is removed is replaced with fillers, with no reduction in calories. Using a bit less of the full-fat version is the healthiest choice.

6. Poultry hot dogsAll hot dogs include skin and fat, even those made from poultry. Try a low-fat or fat-free dog as a lower-calorie alternative for your cookouts.

7. Cereal barsYou can find plenty of cereal bars that are low in fat and calories, but you have to look. Many are high in sugar and saturated fat. Make sure to read the labels to avoid starting your morning with an addition to your belly!

8. Frozen yogurtFrozen yogurt contains added sugar, which translates to extra calories. Look for the low-fat labels and indulge sparingly.

9. Rice cakesThese crispy treats can cause your blood sugar to spike, which in turn causes your body to store unwanted fat by slowing down its ability to burn it off. And beware of flavored rice cakes: They’re loaded with sodium.

10. GranolaAll those wonderful healthy things added together must be good for you, right? Wrong. Granola contains about 350 calories and 12 grams of fat per 3/4 cup — plus a ton of sugar. Low-fat or low-sugar granolas make for a better snack.

                                                                                           //Miss S.