There are a few obvious foods that we all know we’re better off avoiding when it comes to our health. Highly processed snacks, for example, aren’t the first thing you’re likely to reach for when you’re on the pursuit of a healthy meal. However, some of the least healthy options out there may surprise you. As it turns out, there’s one beverage that has many people fooled: store-bought smoothies.
To learn more about how this popular drink could be detrimental to your overall health, we spoke to nutritionist Lisa Richards, creator of The Candida Diet. She told us that pre-made smoothies are likely to be loaded with sugar. Read on to learn more about the risks.
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Health effects of store-bought smoothies
Although smoothies may seem like a healthy meal or snack due to the fact that they're often packed with nutritious fruits, it's important to keep in mind that many of the bottled options you find on store shelves can actually take a serious toll on your health.
"Premade smoothies can be detrimental to health due to their high content of added sugars," Richards tells us. "These added sugars contribute to several health issues when consumed excessively." No matter where it comes from (even if it is a healthy-sounding smoothie), too much sugar can lead to a range of consequences.
Because of all that sugar, pre-made smoothies are also likely to be high in calories. "They can lead to weight gain and obesity due to their high calorie content," she notes.
"Overconsumption of added sugars can also increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by causing insulin resistance and impairing blood sugar control," Richards adds. Your blood sugar is an important aspect of your health, so practicing smart habits in order to manage it (which includes limiting your sugar intake) is always a good idea.
Additionally, Richards warns of the role sugar can take in your heart health. "Excessive sugar intake has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart disease and high blood pressure," she says.
And as one final risk to keep in mind, she reminds us of the consequences sugar can have on your teeth: "Moreover, consuming sugary drinks, including smoothies, has been associated with a higher likelihood of dental cavities and tooth decay." Yikes!
All in all, avoiding any type of sugary food or beverage is one major key to leading a healthy lifestyle. That includes ones that may seem perfectly fine—and pre-made smoothies are one of the best examples. Instead, try whipping up your own at home with one of these weight loss-friendly recipes.
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