You might assume that by eating healthy, youll automatically drop those extra pounds or wont ever gain weight.

Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case.

Most healthier, lighter foods dont have this effect and their intake is easier to control.

Kate Martino, M.S., PA-C

Although these foods can still be healthy, theyre calorie dense and can sabotage your weight management efforts.

There are many reasons for overeating, but a common one is stress.

Calorie imbalance can also occur when there are ample calories coming in but too few calories going out.

Ashley Jordan Ferira, Ph.D., RDN

Im talking about physical activity, which expends calories, builds lean muscle mass, and increases metabolism.

Fats, protein, and carb imbalance.

Healthy eaters now fully embrace the great nutrition and satisfying nature of healthy fats.

Nuts, avocados, coconut, and even animal fats can be a great way to feel satiated.

Unfortunately, unlimited fats pose a challenge when your goal is not just healthy eating but also weight management.

Having too many fatseven healthy onesat every single meal can slow your weight-loss progress.

One of the more important ways to strike this balance is to incorporate an abundance of vegetables.

In fact, eating more vegetables is tied to alower risk of weight gain and obesity3.

And variety is important.

Too much processed food.

Packaged and prepared foodseven healthy or organic versionscan be calorie-dense and easy to overeat.

Common examples are protein bars, trail mix, granola, breads, and baked goods.

The bottom line.

But to be successful with it long-term, balance is just as important.

Balance is the trick to consistently eating healthy without depriving yourself of the foods you love.