Weight loss: Slimmers told to ditch one food group that 'slows the metabolism and increases fat storage'

Speaking to GB News, fitness experts at Lumen said some foods can negatively impact your metabolism, which affects how your body burns calories and fat.

Processed foods and sugar are among the worst culprits. The more you eat, the more fat is stored in your body, according to the experts.

They explained: "Processed foods often contain refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and additives that can disrupt insulin sensitivity, leading to metabolic slowdowns and increased fat storage.

"They also lack essential nutrients, contributing to inflammation, hormone imbalances, and digestive issues, which may negatively affect overall health over time.

"Regular consumption of processed foods can lead to weight gain, higher risk of chronic diseases, and reduced energy levels."

Processed foods can be anything from takeaways and premade convenience meals to cereals, packaged snacks and processed meats.

Not only are these foods bad for your waistline, but they are often packed full of sugar, which also causes metabolic issues of its own.

The experts continued: "Sugar can spike insulin levels, which can lead to insulin resistance over time, thus slowing down your metabolism and promoting fat storage, especially around the abdominal area.

"Excessive sugar consumption also causes blood sugar crashes, leaving you feeling tired and sluggish.

"Long-term, high sugar intake can increase inflammation and disrupt your body’s ability to burn fat efficiently. Therefore, excessive and long-term sugar intake can negatively impact your metabolism and its flexibility."

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Baked goods, cereals, ice cream, chocolate and sweets should all be limited if trying to reduce your consumption of added sugar.

Slimmers should also be mindful of sugary drinks. Indeed, a professor previously spoke to GB News to say these types of drinks are often the downfall of weight loss.

He said: “If you’re serious about losing weight, the first thing I’d cut is liquid calories.

"That means fizzy drinks, fruit juices, milky coffees, even those so-called ‘healthy’ smoothies. They’re packed with sugar and calories but do nothing to fill you up.”