Weight loss: 3 'calorie-dense' foods to cut from your diet to lose weight - 'contributes to overeating'

Processed foods, fried items and alcohol are the worst culprits, according to head of nutrition at Lumen Ulrike Kuehl, but every food choice you make matters.

She said: "Overall, when aiming for weight loss, focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods is key.

"This approach helps regulate appetite and, when paired with adjusting carbohydrate intake to match physiological needs, it can also promote metabolic flexibility.

"Metabolic flexibility means the body can efficiently switch between burning carbohydrates when they’re available and, during fasting or low-carb periods, tapping into fat stores for energy."

So, why do ultra-processed foods get in the way of weight loss goals? The expert explained this.

She stated: "Ultra-processed foods are typically high in refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and additives, which can overstimulate the brain's reward centres.

"This 'hyper-palatable' effect often overrides natural hunger and fullness signals, leading to cravings and overeating."

The second thing to avoid is fried foods. They are a big no-no due to being high in calories and trans fats. The expert continued: "Fried Foods such as chips, onion rings, and fried chicken are typically high in unhealthy trans fats and are of high energy density.

"The frying process adds significant energy without much nutritional benefit, making it easy to consume more fat than intended.

"Regular consumption of fried foods is associated with weight gain and other metabolic health risks, so limiting these foods can support weight loss efforts."

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Don't forget about your drinks. Alcohol and sugary soft drinks are both high in calories and sugar and should be avoided where possible.

Ulkrike added: "Alcohol is calorie-dense and often mixed with sugary beverages, adding further calories.

"Alcohol’s dehydrating effects can also trigger hunger signals, encouraging more food intake, and ultimately contributing to overeating."

The expert suggested swapping these items for five foods that can "manage hunger and reduce cravings".