Big food corporations spend millions to convince us their products are healthy. But beneath the glossy ads and clever packaging, many of these foods can be downright harmful. Let’s pull back the curtain.
1. Granola Bars
Often marketed as a healthy snack, granola bars are usually packed with sugar and artificial ingredients. What seems like a nutritious option can actually be a disguised candy bar.
2. Flavored Yogurts
Flavored yogurts are loaded with added sugars and artificial flavors. What looks like healthy food is often just a dessert in disguise. Stick to plain yogurt and add fresh fruit instead.
3. Instant Oatmeal
Pre-packaged instant oatmeal is convenient but often comes with a hefty dose of sugar and artificial flavors. Opt for plain oats and sweeten them naturally.
4. Veggie Chips
Don’t be fooled by the word “veggie.” These chips often contain more potato starch and flour than actual vegetables, along with plenty of salt and fat.
5. Smoothies
Store-bought smoothies can be loaded with added sugars and calories. Making your own at home with fresh ingredients is a much healthier option.
6. Protein Bars
Marketed as a healthy snack, many protein bars are filled with sugar, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives. Look for bars with natural ingredients.
7. Salad Dressings
Bottled salad dressings often hide sugars, unhealthy fats, and preservatives. Making your own dressing at home is healthier and just as easy.
8. Frozen Yogurt
Often seen as a healthier alternative to ice cream, frozen yogurt can be packed with sugar and artificial ingredients. Plus, the toppings can add even more unhealthy sugars.
9. Diet Sodas
Calorie-free but not risk-free. Diet sodas contain artificial sweeteners that can be harmful and may increase cravings for sugary foods.
10. Microwave Popcorn
Microwave popcorn can contain harmful chemicals in the lining of the bags and unhealthy fats. Air-popped popcorn is a better choice.
11. Low-Fat Peanut Butter
Low-fat versions often replace healthy fats with sugar and other additives. Regular peanut butter, in moderation, is usually the healthier option.
12. Canned Soups
Many canned soups are high in sodium, preservatives, and unhealthy fats. Look for low-sodium options or make your own.
13. Fruit Juices
Even 100% fruit juices can be high in natural sugars, and many store-bought options contain added sugars. Eating whole fruits is better for you.
14. Energy Drinks
Energy drinks are loaded with sugar, caffeine, and artificial ingredients, which can lead to energy crashes and other health issues.
15. Trail Mix
Store-bought trail mix often includes sweetened ingredients like chocolate or yogurt-covered raisins, adding unnecessary sugar and calories. Make your own mix with raw nuts and dried fruits.
16. Breakfast Cereals
Many cereals are marketed as healthy but are actually high in sugar and low in nutritional value. Choose wholegrain cereals with minimal added sugars.
17. Packaged Deli Meats
Packaged deli meats are often high in sodium, preservatives, and unhealthy fats. Fresh, lean meats are a better choice.
18. Sports Drinks
Unless you’re doing intense exercise, sports drinks are often unnecessary and high in sugars and artificial ingredients. Water is usually best.
19. Gluten-Free Snacks
“Gluten-free” doesn’t always mean healthy. Many gluten-free snacks are high in sugar, fat, and calories. Always read the labels.
20. Pre-Made Smoothie Bowls
Pre-made smoothie bowls can be high in sugars and calories, especially with added granola and honey. Making your own at home with fresh ingredients is a healthier option.
Profiting From Misconceptions
Big corporations don’t want you to know the truth about these foods because they profit from your misconceptions. Always read the labels, do your research, and opt for whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible. Your health is worth it!
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Iryna Inshyna.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
