Jenna Rizzo, a weight loss coach from Georgia with a large following on TikTok, shared the three types of groceries that are banned from her home: individually wrapped pastries, sodas and fruit juices, and packaged vegan foods. Rizzo explained that while these foods can be enjoyed in moderation, in her personal experience, they are not conducive to overall health and weight loss goals. She emphasizes the importance of mindful food choices that support health and well-being.
First on Rizzo’s list of banned groceries are individually wrapped pastries, such as Little Debbie Snacks, HoneyBuns, and Pop-Tarts. These foods are high in saturated fats and processed sugars, offering little nutritional value. Ultra-processed foods like packaged pastries are known to be high in calories, sugar, fat, and salt, while lacking essential vitamins and fiber. These foods make up a significant portion of the average American’s daily caloric intake and have been linked to various health issues, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, obesity, and diabetes.
While Rizzo avoids packaged pastries, she still enjoys sweets by opting for freshly made pastries from local bakeries. She advocates for choosing foods that are made with care and quality ingredients, rather than processed and shelf-stable products. Rizzo’s approach to mindful eating focuses on consuming foods that support overall health and well-being, while still allowing for occasional treats.
Sodas and fruit juices are also on Rizzo’s list of banned groceries due to their high sugar content and lack of nutritional value. While fruit juices are often perceived as a healthier option, they are typically filled with processed sugars and artificial flavors. Sugar-sweetened beverages, including sodas and fruit juices, are a major source of added sugar in the American adult diet, contributing to weight gain, diabetes, heart disease, tooth decay, and impaired brain function.
Rizzo prefers to make her own fruit juices at home to ensure they are made with natural, whole ingredients. She highlights the importance of being mindful of the ingredients in foods and beverages consumed, as many commercially available options are filled with added sugars and artificial ingredients. Rizzo encourages her followers to choose homemade or freshly made options whenever possible to support their health and wellness goals.
Finally, Rizzo warns against packaged vegan foods, particularly ultra-processed vegan products like fake meats, butters, and cheeses. While these foods may be labeled as vegan, they can still be high in processed ingredients and artificial additives. A recent study found a link between plant-based ultra-processed foods and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Instead, Rizzo recommends focusing on high-quality natural foods that support overall health and well-being. She encourages her followers to be mindful of their food choices and opt for whole, minimally processed options whenever possible.
