In a world where everyone strives to be healthy, it’s easy to be fooled by clever marketing tactics that make us believe certain foods are good for us. Unfortunately, not everything labeled “healthy” is good for our health. Join us as we uncover ten unhealthy foods that have successfully disguised themselves as nutritious choices.
1. Fruit-Flavored Yogurt
Yogurt, a staple in many people’s diets, can be a nutritional powerhouse. However, fruit-flavored yogurts often harbor high amounts of added sugars, turning them into sweet treats rather than healthy snacks.
In the long run, eventually, you might learn that high sugar level is capable of causing concern in terms of higher blood pressure, inflammation, weight gain, diabetes, and fatty liver disease. It’s best to opt for plain yogurt and add fresh fruit for a truly nutritious option.
2. Veggie Chips
Veggie chips may sound smart, but don’t be fooled by the name. You might even see such labels as “health halo” on some of their packets to formally have you fooled that they genuinely have the value of fresh veggies.
Despite containing small amounts of vegetable powder, most veggie chips are still deep-fried and loaded with unhealthy fats and excessive salt. Instead, reach for fresh veggies or air-popped popcorn as healthier alternatives.
3. Granola
Granola has gained a reputation as a healthy breakfast or snack option. However, many store-bought granolas contain added sugars, oils, and artificial additives. You already know what excess sugar is capable of.
Excess oil and artificial additives can be just as harmful. Our advice? Read the labels carefully before purchasing from the store, or better still, make your own granola using whole grains, nuts, and a touch of natural sweetener.
4. Smoothies
Smoothies can seem like a refreshing and nutritious choice, but be cautious. Pre-made or store-bought smoothies often contain excessive added sugars, artificial flavors, and unhealthy fats. There is nothing, in fact, original about them.
To enjoy a healthy smoothie, make it at home with fresh fruits, vegetables, and a protein source like Greek yogurt. Entirely avoid those spills at the store.
5. Energy Bars
Energy bars are marketed as a convenient and healthy snack option for busy individuals. They say such things as “eat to be energized” to enable you to work for longer hours nonstop. Sadly, many of these bars are loaded with sugars, refined grains, and artificial ingredients.
I’m not asking that you entirely forgo them, but look for bars with minimal ingredients, natural sweeteners, and a good balance of protein and fiber.
6. Gluten-Free Products
Gluten-free has become a popular buzzword, leading many to believe that gluten-free products are automatically healthier. However, gluten-free alternatives often contain refined flour, added sugars, and unhealthy additives to compensate for the lack of gluten.
You get the whole gist now, don’t you? If you don’t have a gluten intolerance, choose whole-grain options instead.
7. Low-Fat Salad Dressings
Salads are a go-to for health-conscious individuals. You feel you need to watch your weight, for example, and the first advice for diet options you’re given is “do salads.” That’s not bad advice, but be wary of low-fat salad dressings.
These dressings often compensate for the reduced fat by adding excessive amounts of sodium, sugar, and artificial additives. It’s healthier if you can go for homemade dressings using olive oil, vinegar, and herbs for a healthier choice.
8. Fruit Juice
Once, someone referred to a glass of fruit juice over dinner as a “glass full of sugar,” and thinking about it now, I don’t think they were wrong. Fruit juice may seem like a natural choice for a vitamin boost, but it can be a deceptive source of hidden sugars.
Most packaged juices lack the fiber in whole fruits, leading to a concentrated dose of sugar. Enjoy whole fruits instead, and if you crave juice, make it fresh at home.
9. Protein Bars
These were my favorite things until I learned they are a sneaky candy bar substitute. Whether or not you agree, protein bars are often marketed as a nutritious option for athletes or as meal replacements.
However, many protein bars contain high amounts of sugar, unhealthy fats, and artificial ingredients. Be cautious and look out for bars with a good balance of protein and fiber.
10. Low-Calorie Snacks
Snack foods labeled as low-calorie may seem like a guilt-free indulgence but don’t be deceived. These might taste nice and appear to be what it poses to be. Still, most often compensate for the reduced calories by adding artificial sweeteners, unhealthy additives, and refined ingredients.
A better option for you should be whole foods like fruits, vegetables, or a handful of nuts for a truly nourishing snack.
