Food is an integral part of our culture. We love indulging in delicious meals and trying out new dishes. However, as a culture, we also highly value our health and many adults across the world resolve to be healthier in the new year. With that in mind, it’s important to be mindful of the biggest food mistakes we make. While many of these foods can be enjoyed on occasion, it’s essential to be aware of healthier alternatives when we crave these delicious-but-unhealthy foods. Here are 10 unhealthy foods to give up in the new year:

1. Doughnuts:
First thing in the morning, it’s hard to pass up a sugary sweet doughnut when ordering coffee. But what most people don’t know is that doughnuts are worse than most unhealthy snacks. One doughnut is about 300 calories, and if you add a doughnut a day to your regular diet without exercising or cutting down on calories elsewhere, you could gain an extra pound every 10 days. It’s best to practice moderation when choosing doughnuts. Instead, try a delicious bowl of Greek yogurt with fruit and granola to satisfy your sweet tooth.

2. Bagels:
Bagels are a convenient and tasty breakfast option, but reaching for a bagel first thing in the morning is a guaranteed way to pack on the pounds. Bagels lack the fiber your body needs and are empty carbs that quickly turn into sugar and fat. Instead, opt for English muffins, which are high in fiber and contain less sugar than bagels.

3. Fast Food Burgers:
Fast food burgers are delicious, but they may not be as trustworthy as we believe. Real meat only makes up a small percentage of fast food burgers, with the rest consisting of fillers like water, cartilage, and bone. These burgers are also high in fat content. Instead, opt for burgers from quality restaurants that are committed to making real food.

4. French Fries:
French fries are an American staple, but they are not comparable to potatoes in terms of nutrition. Removing the skin of the potato to make fries actually removes the most nutritious part of the potato. Fries lack nutritional value and are high in fat and calories. Consider alternatives like carrot fries or zucchini chips.

5. Chips:
Chips are a cheap and savory snack, but when consumed daily, they can have negative health impacts. They are often high in sodium and fat, putting people at risk for high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Opt for baked chips, unsalted pretzels, or air-popped popcorn as healthier alternatives.

6. Bacon:
Bacon is a beloved food, but it is one of the worst foods we can eat. It is high in sodium and cholesterol. Each ounce of bacon contributes 30 milligrams of cholesterol. In moderation, it can be enjoyed, but consider trying turkey bacon as a healthier alternative.

7. Deep Fried Foods:
Fried foods instantly add to calorie and fat intake, as food absorbs fat from oil while frying. Consuming fried foods consistently greatly increases the risk of obesity. Opt to bake, grill, or steam your food instead.

8. Soda:
Soda is liquid sugar and is not part of a healthy meal. Drinking soda consistently can cause serious health concerns, such as an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and heart attacks. Instead, opt for soda water or iced tea as healthier alternatives.

9. Microwave Popcorn:
Microwave popcorn has been found to contain harmful chemicals in the bag, such as diacetyl and PFOA, which can cause serious health problems like cancer and thyroid issues. Opt to make your own popcorn on the stove using kernels.

10. Processed Meats:
Processed meats are a common part of our culture, but they are one of the unhealthiest foods you can eat. They have been linked to a greater risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and cancer due to the chemical compounds added to them. Consider alternatives like roasted turkey for packed lunches.

While it’s okay to indulge in cravings occasionally, it’s best to be aware of healthier alternatives and practice moderation in our food choices. By making healthier choices, we can work towards living a healthier life in the new year.