Some foods are marketed as healthy but contain more added sugar, salt or processing than you might expect. You don’t need to avoid them completely, but it helps to know what to look for on the label.
Here are ten “healthy” foods worth a second look.
1. Fruit juice
Juice contains vitamins, but it lacks the fibre of whole fruit and can be high in natural sugars. A small glass is fine; whole fruit is more filling.
2. Fat-free and low-fat packaged foods
When fat is removed, sugar or other ingredients are sometimes added to improve taste. Check the label.
3. Flavoured yogurt
Many flavoured yogurts contain lots of added sugar. Plain yogurt with fresh fruit is a simple alternative.
4. Granola
Granola can be high in sugar and oil. Look for lower-sugar versions, or make your own.
5. Protein bars
Some protein bars are closer to sweets than to a balanced snack. A handful of nuts or a piece of fruit with yogurt can be just as satisfying.
6. Bottled smoothies
Smoothies can be a nice treat, but shop-bought ones are often high in sugar. Homemade versions with vegetables and whole fruit keep more fibre.
7. Gluten-free snacks
If you need to avoid gluten, these are a helpful option. Otherwise, gluten-free doesn’t automatically mean healthier, and some versions are highly processed.
8. Veggie crisps
They sound healthy, but many are fried and salted like ordinary crisps.
9. Diet fizzy drinks
They’re sugar-free, but research on artificial sweeteners is mixed. Water, tea and sparkling water with fruit are refreshing alternatives.
10. Sweetened plant milks
Plant milks can be a great choice, but some contain added sugar. Look for unsweetened versions, ideally with added calcium.
Read labels, not slogans
Words like “natural”, “light” and “healthy” on packaging don’t always tell the full story. A quick look at the ingredients and the sugar and salt content can help you choose.
If you already follow a special eating plan, keep to it and let these ideas fit around it.
How little is enough
Next time you shop, check the label on one food you often buy. Notice what’s in it.
For more, read 20 healthy food swaps that most people overlook.
If you’d like a gentle companion in the kitchen, there’s a short food guide on the Guides page.
Great article! A lot of people forget to check their food labels or really understand what they’re buying. I learned something new myself about the strawberries. I will definitely be buying the organic option from now on!
Awesome and I still see people drink diet drinks as if they believe its the healthier option!
It’s one of my biggest pet peeves! There’s new research coming out now that these drinks don’t do what you listed, but I’m still extremely skeptical and haven’t done enough reading into yet. I’ll be writing about it soon though!