Healthy Foods You Could Be Overeating
By Sara Butler
A lot of food out there is undeniably healthy for you. But a common problem many people have is thinking that because a food is healthy, then unlimited quantities of them are acceptable. The truth is that many healthy foods are also calorie dense, even if they do provide a great dose of vitamins and minerals in the process. Here are some healthy foods you may be eating too much of!
Avocados
Avocados are excellent for you. They’re filled with magnesium, riboflavin, phosphorus, and a multitude of other healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins. But one small avocado also contains a little over 300 calories. That high calorie count and the fact that avocado is often something you eat along with other foods can unexpectedly turn your healthy meal into a high-calorie one. Continue to eat avocados, but just be mindful about what it may be doing to your calorie count.
Almonds
Almonds are a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They also have about 160 calories in 23 whole almonds. While almonds have been found to have many health benefits, such as helping to stabilize blood sugar levels and improving heart health, it’s very easy to eat too many of them. Having more than a couple of handfuls in the middle of the afternoon can add a lot more calories to your day. Don’t stop having almonds around but consider dividing them up into just one serving in small baggies so you can keep tabs on just how many you’re getting.
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is full of monounsaturated fats, which are great for your heart and filling to boot. But just two tablespoons of peanut butter can top the calorie count at 200 calories. Peanut butter may make a great post-workout snack, but you really need to watch how much you’re getting. Sitting down with a spoon and a jar of peanut butter is never a good idea. This is one snack that, while great for you, really needs to be measured out to keep you in check.
Quinoa
Quinoa is the queen of grains and for good reason. It’s full of healthy complex carbohydrates, Vitamin B, magnesium, manganese, and phosphorus. But along with all that good stuff it also has about 200 calories in a cooked cup. Make sure you make quinoa merely the base of your meal, not the whole thing. Add plenty of vegetables to take up room in your belly too.
Remember, all foods have their limit whether they're healthy or not!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Woodland Hills, Calif.
