When news outlets, blog posts and other websites throw out a mix of contradictory information about health and wellness, it’s hard to determine what’s good and what’s bad for us. Some foods have been labeled as “healthy” choices without further explanation about its “healthy” limitations, and has left people with a misunderstanding about certain food’s nutritional content. Listed below are 10 foods that have been claimed to be “healthy” options, that are actually unhealthy. Check it out.
1. Loaded trail mix: Making your own trail mix is easy, and if you make it to be a healthy snack option, it’ll be packed with protein, omega-3s and fiber. Unfortunately, a lot of the store-bought versions are loaded with excess sugar, oils and preservatives, which are bad for you. Some even have yogurt coatings, extra-salty flavors and a heaping amount of candied dried fruits. The calories just keep adding up! (via Greatist)
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2. Granola: Granola is another snack that you can make at home and for a healthy snack option… if you make it the right way. However, commercial varieties smother granola with sweeteners and dried fruits that are high in sugar and calories. If you want to purchase granola from the store, make sure it does not include fructose, corn syrup or cornstarch, and stay away from words like “glazed” and “frosted.” (via Greatist)
3. Dried fruit: Store-bought dried fruits can be made using chemicals and sugar to enhance the taste and preserve the flavor. If you want to purchase dried fruits at the store, make sure you choose the ones labeled “no sugar added” or that use an alternative sweetener (like all-natural fruit juice); otherwise, your seemingly healthy snack will become an energy dense food — high in calories, low in nutritional value. (via Greatist)
>> Curious for more? Click here to read about 5 foods that are unexpectedly high in sugar!
4. Bagels: This item should be no surprise to the list. Although bagels can offer a small amount of iron, fiber and protein, a three-ounce bagel can be as much as 360 calories. Some can even pack as much as 100 more calories and twice the amount of carbs in a frosted doughnut. Yikes! (via Greatist)
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5. Diet soda: Don’t be fooled by the word “diet” here. Some studies suggest that drinking diet soda might actually contribute to weight gain more so than in comparison to drinking regular soda. Aspartame is the calorie-free sweetener used in diet sodas, and the evidence of its negative consequences to our health continues to grow. (via Greatist) Click here to read more about the battle between calories and chemicals in diet soda.
6. Energy drinks: We know you’re tired and desperate for a jolt of energy because sometimes, coffee just doesn’t do the trick. Unfortunately, energy drinks are loaded with calories, sugar, and an unhealthy dose of caffeine which can lead to anxiety, insomnia, irregular heartbeat, and increased blood pressure. Not good! (via Greatist)
7. Yogurt: Yes, yogurt is healthy! Just be careful with the pre-packaged cups that contain added ingredients, toppings and crazy flavors — that’s where the calories start to add up. When looking at the nutritional label, if you see anything like corn syrup, dextrose, fructose, fruit juice concentrate, glucose, high-fructose corn syrup, maltose, or anything of that nature, stay away! (via Greatist)
8. Fruit juice: The name “fruit juice” is a huge misconception for consumers. Most of the commercialized fruit juices are high in calories and sugar content. If you love drinking juice, try squeezing it yourself! (via Muscle and Fitness)
>> Are you being tricked into buying sugary, “healthy” drinks for your kids? Click here to find out!
9. Breakfast cereals: Cereal is a fast and easy food option to eat in the morning, but most of the commercialized options aren’t that healthy. Cereals that claim to be healthy (like Raisin Bran and Honey Nut Cheerios) can have just as much sugar as Fruity Pebbles. The high sugar content can contribute to tooth decay, weight gain and heart disease.
10. Protein bars: Many store-bought protein bars are filled with sugar and high fructose corn syrup, which includes trans fats and artificial sweeteners, and unfortunately, ruins the high protein content inside. Make sure to check the nutritional label before purchasing! (via Muscle and Fitness)
>> Want more? Click here to read more about “healthy” foods that are hiding sugar.
