7 Worst Fruits and Veggies for Your Waistline

“An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” but did you know some fruits are chock-full of sugar? How about how some vegetables can go straight to your hips? This seems like nature’s evil joke, tricking us into believing that we are eating healthy when really, we are consuming too much sugar, starch, and carbohydrates.

But before you swear off citrus fruits and leafy greens, keep in mind that not all crops are bad for your fitness goals. If you are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy BMI, here are seven fruits and veggies you should limit:

1. Potatoes

The very-much-loved potato is possibly the worst vegetable if you are watching your weight. As delicious and versatile potatoes may be, they are high in starch and carbohydrates. Excessive consumption of french fries, hash browns, and all potato-rich dishes can lead to weight gain over time.

2. Avocados

This creamy addition to any meal is America’s new favorite fruit. However, large avocados contain a whopping 332 calories. If you are trying to reach a healthier weight, this is one to avoid.

3. Beans and legumes

A single cup of lentils has 227 calories, compared to broccoli with only 31. Beans and legumes might be high-protein superfoods, but you need to reduce your intake to speed up the process of weight loss. This is especially true if you do not have an active lifestyle.

4. Dried fruits

Did you know 100 grams of dried fruit contains 359 calories? It is far more calorific than fresh fruit, which in the case of apples, only has 51 calories per 100 grams. By topping your yogurt or salad with dried fruit, you are adding more than just a fresh burst of flavor — you are also adding more calories to your meal.

5. Sweet corn

This delicious, starchy vegetable is assigned an index number of 55. This means sweet corn increases blood glucose levels 55% as much as pure glucose. A few hours after consumption, you will experience a sudden drop in glucose levels, which will leave you feeling hungry much quicker.

6. Bananas

Bananas are a great grab-and-go option for breakfast, lunch, and snack time. Although these yellow fruits are rich in vitamins B6 and C, magnesium, potassium, and protein, they are also 25% sugar.

7. Mangoes

Most people say mangoes are synonymous with tropical vacations and indulgence for good reason: one cup of delicious mango has almost 23 grams of sugar, which doesn’t seem too bad until you realize it’s the equivalent of a full bag of Sour Patch Kids.

Takeaway

We are always told to eat our fruits and vegetables because they contain vitamins, minerals, and unique healing properties. But like those mentioned in this list, not all are great depending on our individual health and fitness goals. If your favorite fruits and veggies are high in calories, sugar, starch, or carbs; you do not need to remove them from your diet. As always, moderation is key to preventing weight gain and its health risks.