A weight-loss expert has revealed the five foods he refuses to keep in his kitchen, as he says they secretly sabotage slimming efforts, despite appearing “healthy” at first glance.
From breakfast items to snacks, many of the worst offenders are marketed as wholesome food options, but the doctor says they are more likely to trigger food cravings than help with losing weight.
Professor Franklin Joseph, consultant physician and director of Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic, claims some of the most damaging contributors to weight gain may surprise you.
He said: “These are foods that appear healthy, sound healthy and are often marketed as smart choices. But they’re misleading, and they often make people hungrier, more tired or more likely to overeat.”
Here are the five foods he refuses to have in his kitchen
Fruit juice
“It’s one of the fastest ways to spike your blood sugar. You strip away all the fibre from the fruit and end up drinking pure sugar. Even so-called ‘no added sugar’ juice can have the same effect as a fizzy drink.”
Protein granola
“It sounds like a great option, but most of these are loaded with sugar, seed oils and empty calories. Just because it says ‘protein’ doesn’t make it good for weight loss.”
Dried fruit
“A handful of raisins has the same sugar hit as a handful of sweets. The portion sizes are tiny, but the calorie load is massive. It’s far better to have fresh fruit, which fills you up.”
Rice cakes
“They’re low-calorie but they do nothing for satiety. People eat them thinking they’re being ‘good’ – then they’re starving an hour later. It’s a false economy.
Low-fat flavoured yoghurt
“They’re marketed as a healthy snack, but they’re basically dessert. Most are full of sugar or artificial sweeteners that mess with your hunger signals. You’re far better off with plain Greek yoghurt and some berries.”
Prof Joseph reveals his kitchen is packed with fibre-rich carbohydrates, lean protein, and an abundance of fresh produce. He explained: “I focus on foods that give you energy, keep you full and support your metabolism.
“That means lentils, beans, oats, veggies, eggs, lean fish and some fruit. If a food makes you hungrier or leaves you tired, it doesn’t belong in your house.
“Weight loss isn’t about restriction. It’s about choosing the foods that actually help you feel good and stay consistent.”