The 3 ‘healthy' summer foods secretly stalling your weight loss – as doctor warns think twice

The Irish Sun

24-07-2025

A WEIGHT LOSS doctor has revealed three so-called 'slimming' staples that could secretly be causing you to pile on the pounds this summer.
While they may seem like safe options, they're often loaded with hidden sugars, fats or calories - and could be the real reason your weight loss has stalled.
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It's important to understand how certain foods could derail your weight loss goals, said Prof Joseph
Credit: Getty
Losing weight in summer may seem easier with an abundance of healthy fresh fruits and vegetables available.
And warmer weather tends to come with a need for less calories.
But according to Professor Franklin Joseph, consultant physician and head of
'It's not about cutting out everything,' he said, 'but understanding how certain foods - even the ones marketed as healthy - can quietly derail your goals.'
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1. Smoothie bowls
While smoothie
bowls
are colourful, Instagram-friendly and often topped with fruit, seeds and granola, they can contain more calories than a full English breakfast, warned Prof Joseph.
He said: 'People forget that blended fruit removes the fibre that slows down sugar absorption.
"Then you add sweet toppings like honey, nut butter and granola - and suddenly you've got a 600 to 800 calorie breakfast that leaves you hungry an hour later.'
Instead, he recommends whole fruits with a protein source like Greek yoghurt or a small handful of nuts to
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2. Shop-bought iced coffees
Iced coffees may seem like a light treat, but may sold in supermarkets and cafes are loaded with syrups, cream and full-fat milk.
"Some contain more sugar than a can of coke,' said Prof Joseph.
Nutrionist hacks that make healthy eating easy
And even drinks labelled as 'skinny' can contain additives or sweeteners that trigger cravings and increase hunger later in the day, he added.
'If you're watching your weight, go for black iced coffee with a splash of milk - or make your own at home so you know exactly what's in it.'
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3. Creamy summer salads
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Salads swimming in creamy dressings could pack unwanted calories
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Salads may sounds like the perfect with loss choice, but the devil's in the dressing, Prof Joseph said.
He explained: 'Coleslaw, potato salad and pasta salad are BBQ staples, but they're often
swimming
in mayonnaise or creamy sauces that are high in fat and calories.
"Even a small serving can pack in more than 200 calories without offering much in terms of fibre or protein.'
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He suggests swapping creamy dressings for lighter options like lemon juice, balsamic vinegar or olive
oil
with herbs - and bulking salads out with grilled veg, beans or lean protein to stay satisfied.
Think twice before you tuck in
Prof Joseph said summer brings more casual eating - from BBQs to picnics and iced drinks on the go - and it's easy to underestimate the hidden calories.
These foods aren't 'bad', but they can quietly add up if you're trying to lose weight, he advised.
He added: 'Being a bit more mindful - whether that's skipping a creamy salad, making your own iced coffee or choosing whole fruit over a smoothie bowl - can make a big difference over time."
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The 5 best exercises to lose weight
By Lucy Gornall, personal trainer and health journalist
EXERCISE can be intimidating and hard to devote yourself to. So how do you find the right workout for you?
As a PT and fitness journalist, I've tried everything.
I've taken part in endless fitness competitions, marathons and I maintain a regime of runs, strength training and Pilates.
Fitness is so entrenched in my life, I stick to it even at Christmas!
The key is finding an activity you love that can become a habit.
My top five forms of exercise, especially if you're trying to lose weight, are:
Walking
Running
Pilates
High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
Strength training