Have you ever thought about why Americans are often heavy? We tend to place blame on too much food and not enough exercise, however recent findings have surprised experts. Scientists from Harvard report there are some foods that cause weight gain and here they are:

1. Butter
Butter and cheese have been linked to weight gain for a long time. A Harvard study found that those who consume dairy products are likely to gain 0.30 pound every four years. Yogurt is an exception to dairy products, people who eat yogurt are less likely to gain extra pounds. Frozen yogurt does not have live cultures and often has the same calories as ice cream, remember fat-free has even more sugar.

2. Desserts
High-fat desserts like ice-cream, pie, and cheesecake contribute to weight gain. Small servings on occasion are okay, but more can be threatening. Pies filled with cream and nuts have more calories than fruit-filled pies. One-eighth of a pie or cheesecake has 300-more than 400 calories depending upon the filling and is a full serving. One-half cup vanilla ice cream contains 135 calories.

3. Dried fruit
Dried fruits are high in calories and sugars and lack water. Limit consumption to an occasional 1/4 cup.

4. Fruit Juice
Fruit juice can pack as much sugar as soda. Drinking juice increases glucose levels and the liver stores it as fat which results in weight gain. Studies show drinking fruit juice can contribute 0.31 extra pounds every four years.

5. Fried foods
Fried foods have become a part of life, but studies reveal eating fried foods daily at home can add up to 0.36 pounds every four years and eating them at restaurants can add 0.28 pounds every four years.

http://positivemed.com/2014/03/13/10-foods-cause-weight-gain/