When you look at these foods, you may automatically think that they are nutritious and good for you. But, they really are not. From sugar-filled treats to foods filled with unhealthy fats, you will be surprised to learn the truth about these 17 foods.
Note: The content of this article does not reflect the Writer’s personal beliefs, nor is it medical advice.
Bottled smoothies
Bottled smoothies are often marketed as a convenient and healthy way to consume fruits and vegetables. However, many bottled smoothies contain high amounts of added sugars, preservatives, and artificial ingredients, diminishing their nutritional value and potentially contributing to excessive calorie intake.
It is so easy to grab some veggies, fruits, a handful of spinach and make your own smoothie. Don´t be fooled by bottled smoothies.
Flavored Yogurt
Flavored yogurts are commonly perceived as a healthy choice because of their association with probiotics and dairy. However, flavored yogurts often contain high amounts of added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and artificial flavors, which can offset the potential health benefits of yogurt.
Always read the ingredient list and try to choose yogurts with as few ingredients as possible.
Veggie chips
Veggie chips, made from vegetables like carrots or kale, are portrayed as a healthier alternative to regular potato chips. However, many veggie chips are still deep-fried or heavily processed, resulting in a high calorie and sodium content.
You can easily make your own veggie chips either in the air fryer or even in the oven with thinly sliced vegetables and a small amount of olive oil instead.
Sports drinks
Sports drinks are commonly believed to replenish electrolytes and provide energy during physical activity. However, they are typically high in added sugars and calories, making them unnecessary for most people. Water or natural electrolyte sources like coconut water are usually sufficient for hydration.
Store-bought salad dressings
Store-bought salad dressings are commonly perceived as a quick and easy way to enhance the flavor of salads. However, they can be loaded with added sugars, unhealthy fats, sodium, and artificial additives.
Making homemade dressings with simple, wholesome ingredients is a healthier alternative.
Pre-packaged oatmeal packets with added sugars
Pre-packaged oatmeal packets are often marketed as a convenient and healthy breakfast option. However, many of these packets contain high amounts of added sugars and artificial flavors.
Opting for plain oats and adding your own natural sweeteners and toppings is a healthier choice and really so simple, that there is no need to purchase pre-packed oatmeal.
Multigrain bread
Multigrain bread may seem nutritious, but unless it is labeled as 100% whole grain, it may contain refined grains that lack the fiber and nutrients found in whole grains. Opting for 100% whole grain bread ensures you get the full nutritional benefits.
It is important to remember that traditional bread should contain only four ingredients: flour, water, yeast, and salt. Therefore, be extra cautious when purchasing bread.
Fruit juice (when not 100%)
Fruit juice is often perceived as a healthy choice due to its association with fruits. However, many commercial fruit juices are high in added sugars and lack the fiber and nutrients found in whole fruits. Choosing 100% pure, unsweetened fruit juice or even whole fruits is a way better choice.
Rice cakes
Rice cakes are often considered a low-calorie, guilt-free snack. However, they are highly processed and lack significant nutrients, fiber, and protein. Opting for whole-grain snacks or pairing rice cakes with nutrient-rich toppings can make them a more balanced choice.
Microwave Popcorn
Pre-packages, microwave popcorn, is actually full of chemicals and additives. These ingredients are added to the popcorn to keep it fresh inside the bag and help it pop better in the microwave. In addition, most bags also contain a ton of saturated fats.
You can make your own popcorn by popping kernels over the stovetop or in an air fryer and adding your own seasonings for flavor.
Dried Fruit
Dried fruit contains a lot of sugar. Lots of the sugar is naturally found in the fruit, but it is extremely concentrated, making it more potent. Consuming a large amount of sugar is very easy when you start eating handfuls of dried fruit.
Plus, many companies also add extra sugar or a sugary coating to the outside of the dried fruit, making it even worse! Stick to whole, fresh fruits to avoid the intense amount of sugar.
Veggie Straws
Veggie straws are super popular right now, especially in kids' lunchboxes. All parents want their kids to eat veggies and will help in any way to make it happen! But veggie straws are not the answer and definitely not a substitute for real vegetables. While they do typically contain small amounts of vegetable powders, they are not nearly as nutritious as a real vegetable—not even close.
Green Juice
Lots of people see green juice and instantly think it is loaded with natural vitamins and minerals. We have all been brainwashed to believe that green = good! But most green juices, especially those you get in the grocery store or at juice shops, are loaded with sugar.
Most green juices are also strained, which removes almost all the fiber that may have been in the glass. Green juice may look super healthy, but it is far from it.
Spinach Wraps
When you see a big, green tortilla with the word "spinach" written on the package, you likely automatically think it is healthy. Think again.
Spinach wraps are often made with the same processessed white flour as regular tortilla wraps. The only difference is a tiny amount of spinach powder that gives the wraps the green hue. Don't be fooled! They are not full of spinach but just made with artificial ingredients, preservatives, and empty carbs.
Cereal
You may think that a nice bowl of cereal is a healthy way to start the day. But most cereals you find in the grocery store are very heavily processed and contain loads and loads of sugar, preservatives, and artificial flavors.
You can try making your own cereal, which would actually be good! But avoid the store-bought stuff, as it may do more long-term harm than good.
Acai Bowls
The nutritional content of an acai bowl will vary based on the topping you choose. While most bowls are full of antioxidants and nutrients, they are also loaded with sugar and calories. All those fruits in one bowl really do add up when it comes to sugar content!
Plus, people tend to consume a much larger serving than necessary, consuming double or triple portions. Be careful when making your acai bowl, and definitely stay away from the pre-made bowls, which almost always have excessive amounts of sugar.
Diet Soda
You may think that diet soda is healthy simply because the word "diet" is in the name. However, while diet sodas may be mostly sugar-free or low-calorie, that doesn't make them healthy.
Diet sodas are full of artificial sweeteners and chemicals that have been proven to be very bad for your body, especially in the long term. Avoid these terrible, fake drinks as much as possible!
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