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By Shenrina Badri

Freelance Contributor


How to cut down on empty calorie foods

Do you know what empty calorie foods are and how to cut down on them?


What are “empty calorie” foods?

Empty calorie foods are those foods that have minimal and sometimes no nutrient content whatsoever. Examples of empty calorie foods are those that contain large amounts of sugar, salt and fat/oils, as well as alcoholic beverages.

How to cut down on empty calorie foods

The simplest way to cut down on empty calorie foods is to limit your intake of them. For example, if you have two biscuits for dessert, consider dropping it to one. Or if you tend to enjoy a large slice of chocolate cake during teatime, consider having a thinner slice. The smaller the portion size, the better it is for your weight.

Look for alternatives

You could also consider finding alternative foods to eat if you have a certain craving. Just make sure it is a healthy option. For example, if you are craving something sweet – skip the cake and enjoy a juicy fruit instead.

Cut down on alcohol

Similarly, consider cutting down on the number of alcoholic beverages you have – especially if you tend to overindulge. Drinking a glass of water between every drink is a great way to cut down.

Get more ideas

If you need more ideas on how you can cut down on empty calorie foods, speak to a dietician.

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