We all know that diet and health are intrinsically linked. And with metabolism slowing as we age, the risk of obesity and related health concerns grows. It’s no wonder your doctor might consistently remind you to watch your diet!

But for many people, it can be difficult to make sweeping lifestyle changes. And on top of that, how do you know what to eat, and how much you can have? For many of us, making a few simple alterations can be so much easier. So with that idea in mind, avoiding these four foods most of the time can make a big difference. Plus, they’re easy to remember.

Sugary drinks. Most sodas, coffee drinks, lemonades, and teas can all contain as much sugar as anyone should consume in an entire day! An occasional treat is fine, but consuming these beverages on a daily basis is not a good idea.

Processed, packaged snacks. If a snack comes in a little bag or wrapper, view it with suspicion. Read the label carefully, because some packaged foods contain more than one “serving” and therefore double or triple the amount of calories that you might expect. Packaged snacks are notorious for their sugar content, whereas opting for a combo of protein and fresh produce offers a much healthier alternative.

Frozen or canned meals. Yes, they’re convenient, but frozen and canned meals are often high in sodium. Since 75 percent of people over age 60 have high blood pressure, it’s a good idea to simply skip prepared foods like canned soup and frozen pizzas.

Fried foods. Simply by deep frying a food, you triple its calories. A fried snack every so often won’t be a big deal, but regularly consuming fried foods will definitely impact your waistline and health. Invest in an air fryer, to enjoy some of your favorite foods, and opt for other methods of preparation as well.

So, what do you eat instead? Remember that fresh fruits and veggies come ready to eat! And with minimal effort you can throw together a terrific salad. Easy protein options like cheese, yogurt, eggs, and lean meats are easy to prepare, and offer the nutrients you need. And finally, don’t forget about fiber and healthy carbs from sources like oatmeal or whole grains.

Talk to your doctor about your diet and lifestyle, and they can help you identify foods that support your health goals while also fitting into a busy schedule.