The public is generally quick to name the common culprits for weight gain, but there is still a widely held belief that eating healthy is the guaranteed path to a slender waistline.
Growing evidence suggests successful weight loss is less about distinguishing good foods from bad ones and more about understanding the intricate relationship between diet and the body.
A nutritionist has cautioned that several foods typically considered "healthy" can hinder weight loss due to underlying food intolerances. The problem, according to Oliver Goble from Supply Life, doesn't come down to the nutritional profile of foods themselves but rather how each person reacts to them.
"People often assume that if a food is considered healthy, it will automatically support weight loss," he said. "But if your body isn't tolerating it well, it can lead to inflammation, water retention and digestive issues that may contribute to weight gain."
Intolerances to food can cause water retention and inflammation
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Eggs, for example, have long been a popular breakfast choice for their protein content, but sensitivities to egg whites are common, triggering an inflammatory response in some people.
"If someone has an intolerance, even mild, it can lead to symptoms like bloating or discomfort," he explained. "Over time, this can affect digestion and make it harder for the body to function properly."
Despite being subtle, these reactions can impair the digestive system's ability to function optimally over time.
Another culprit to have on your radar is the plant-based protein bar, which, according to Mr Goble, can present a challenge for anyone sensitive to pea protein.
"These products are often seen as a convenient health food, but they can be quite heavy on the digestive system," he explained. "This can lead to bloating and discomfort, which some people may mistake for weight gain."
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Oats, another breakfast favourite in Britain, can cause problems for anyone with compromised gut health or sensitivity to their fibre-rich content. Often, this manifests as sluggish digestion or abdominal discomfort.
The solution is not necessarily to eliminate these foods, according to My Globe. Rather, he recommends focusing on becoming more attuned to your body's responses.
'The goal isn't to cut out foods unnecessarily but to pay attention to how your body reacts'
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"Identifying and adjusting foods that cause discomfort can help improve digestion, energy levels and overall health," he explained.
Ultimately, Mr Goble stressed the dietary choices that suit one person best may prove problematic for another person, particularly when it comes to digestive health.
Understanding these differences can be the key to achieving better well-being rather than blindly following conventional wisdom about healthy eating.
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