Foods to Eliminate in the New Year

With the holiday season upon us, many are beginning to think about the new year.

2025 will no doubt bring on a new set of resolutions and motivational goals for most people. Health and fitness seem to be on the minds of most at the beginning of a new year. Along with that, the challenge of removing certain foods from our diets reigns supreme.

Here is a list of foods that researchers at Newsweek indicate should be cut to give your diet a new year’s makeover, and how to do it:

Protein bars and shakes 

Experts agree that ultra- processed protein bars and shakes need to be a thing of the past. They typically contain artificial sweeteners and inflammatory ingredients. It is best to swap these products out with higher quality options, such as hemp seed powder or organic, grass fed whey. Keep in mind that protein still has calories, and is processed by the kidneys. So, you wouldn’t want to overdo it by giving your body something that it doesn’t need. There is also the chance that ultra- processed bars and shakes can wreak havoc on your gut health.

Food with “natural flavors” 

Food is either natural or it isn’t. So, if a food product has in its ingredient list “natural flavors”, chances are those flavors aren’t so natural. Many times, these are just as processed as artificial ones. In fact, scientists called “flavorists” are hired by food companies to engineer flavors in a lab. The flavors offer no nutritional benefit and even trigger cravings. While not inherently bad, these flavors can be best described as vague due to being heavily processed. Watch out for flavored yogurt, for example, which may have the equivalent of 5 to 6 added teaspoons of sugar.

Energy drinks 

The suggestion to avoid energy drinks should come as no surprise. High caffeine, sugar, and artificial ingredients cause these drinks to negatively impact heart health and sleep. While it may be the boost of energy that you need during the day, energy drinks almost always guarantee a crash because they contain chemicals that do not offer real nutrition. Experts recommend you ditch all sodas that are sugary and artificial. Even diet soda contains artificial sweeteners, which can negatively impact the metabolism.

More subtle suggestions 

While everyone may not agree, some experts say that other foods should also be ditched in the new year. They include seed oils such as canola, soybean, and corn. These oils are heavily refined, can promote inflammation, and throw off the balance between the body’s omega-3 and omega-6 fats. Limited consumption is suggested.

Other foods worthy of honorable mention include certain meat alternatives, plant-based cheese, butter and some plant-based milks. They may be heavily refined and contain several additives. Sometimes, it is best to have the real thing or seek other alternatives. When it comes to nutrition, some plant-based options are nutritious but a whole-food diet with natural protein offers ideal benefits.

Keep these suggestions in mind to have a healthy, happy new year.