There are many foods in our diets that we don’t realise are actually quite bad for us. Some of them we think of as actually being healthy. So to help you here is a list of 5 foods to avoid

1. FAT FREE FRUIT YOGURTS
Many companies started producing fat free or low fat foods to appeal to healthy eaters. However to keep the same taste they replaced the fat with lots of added sugar which is much worse for you! Always check the ingredients and nutritional contents before buying!

2. PROCESSED MEAT
Yes they are cheap and you may think they are a good source of protein. However mass produced ham, sausages and other processed meats are so full of salt, preservatives and other chemicals. As such they have been linked with causing heart disease, cancer and other illnesses. If these are a major part of your diet try and reduce the amount you eat of them or replace with other more natural sources of protein.

3. GRANOLA / CEREAL BARS
Again, like the yoghurt these may be marketed as a ‘healthy’ snack or breakfast replacement. Unfortunately they again have been loaded with added sugar to make up for the lack of fat. Instead try making your own granola at home!

4. FLAVOURED PORRIDGE 
Another food on the list full of added sugar! While regular porridge is a fantastic breakfast, the ready made flavoured packets have been so loaded with sugar and additives these benefits are lost. Instead try making regular porridge and adding a teaspoon of honey or sprinkle some cinnamon on top (I have it with banana, which I mash up then add oats and milk and cook it together; cooked banana ads an amazing taste to my porridge )

5. MARGARINE 
Many people eat this thinking it is a healthy alternative to butter. Unfortunately it has loads of trans fats (the worst type!) which are strongly linked to causing heart disease. Instead try replacing with regular butter (though not too much!), or even better avocado (trust me it’s awesome )!