Embarking on a weight loss journey can feel like an uphill struggle, as you try to adopt new routines while preparing meals to nourish your way to your dream body.
But three summer favourites perceived as nutritious options might be undermining your dieting efforts, a weight loss specialist has warned.
Professor Franklin Joseph, who leads Dr Frank's Weight Loss Clinic as consultant physician, has identified smoothie bowls, commercially prepared iced coffees and mayonnaise-laden barbecue salads as culprits behind stalled weight reduction.
The medical expert has warned that British consumers frequently succumb to what he terms the "healthy halo" effect, mistakenly believing these foods support their dietary goals.
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|The physician singled out smoothie bowls as particularly treacherous
"It's not about cutting out everything," Professor Joseph shared, "but understanding how certain foods - even the ones marketed as healthy - can quietly derail your goals".
The physician singled out smoothie bowls as particularly deceptive, despite their photogenic appeal and seemingly wholesome ingredients.
"They're colourful, Instagram-friendly and often topped with fruit, seeds and granola - but smoothie bowls can contain more calories than a full English breakfast," Professor Joseph cautioned.
The blending process eliminates beneficial fibre that would normally moderate sugar uptake, he warned, explaining that additional garnishes such as honey, nut spreads, and granola can push the calorie count to between 600 and 800. On top of that, they tend to fail to provide lasting satiation.
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Instead, the consultant advocated consuming intact fruits paired with Greek yoghurt or a modest portion of nuts for sustained fullness.
Commercially available iced coffees are yet another dietary pitfall, according to Professor Joseph.
"It might feel like a light treat, but many of the iced coffees sold in supermarkets and cafes are loaded with syrups, cream and full-fat milk - some contain more sugar than a can of Coke," he cautioned.
"If you're watching your weight, go for black iced coffee with a splash of milk - or make your own at home so you know exactly what's in it," he advised, explaining that "skinny" alternatives could still harbour appetite-stimulating sweeteners and additives.
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|Coleslaw, potato salad and pasta salad are often misleading plates filled with calories
Mayonnaise-heavy salads served at summer gatherings pose the third dietary hazard identified by the weight loss expert.
"Salads sound like the perfect weight loss choice, but the devil's in the dressing," Professor Joseph remarked.
He specifically mentioned coleslaw, potato salad and pasta salad as barbecue favourites that conceal substantial caloric content. A modest portion can exceed 200 calories while providing minimal protein or fibre benefits at the same time.
Substituting heavy dressings with citrus juice, balsamic vinegar, or herb-infused olive oil might be the way to go, the physician advised, explaining how grilled vegetables, pulses or lean proteins are also good alternatives to boost nutritional value and satiety.