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Sep 17
2014

Watch out for these Healthy Foods in Disguise

Fat-free foods, trail mix and protein bars sound like they’re good for you, right?  Not always. Sometimes these “healthy” foods are full of unhealthy ingredients that can add unneeded fat, calories and fillers to your diet!

Here are 7 to watch out for:

Rice cakes

Most people think eating a rice cake is a healthy snack option, but they are 80% carbohydrates—a potato is 23% carbohydrates.

Smoothies

Premade or store-bought smoothies contain large amounts of fruit which can contain a large amount of sugar as well as added sugars and syrups.  One smoothie can rack up to 1000 calories per drink!  The best bet for your smoothie craving is to make a healthy version at home.

Trail mix

There are healthy trail mix options, but most versions we buy at the store are loaded up with candy-coated pieces, yogurt covered raisins and sesame sticks.  Just reaching in for two handfuls can add up to 600 calories full of simple sugars, trans fat and refined carbohydrates.

Energy & protein bars

A lot of energy and protein bars are just a few steps away from a candy bar!  They may promise a high level of fiber and protein, but it’s usually matched by tons of sugar and artificial flavorings which up the calorie content.  If you need a protein boost, try some string cheese or an apple instead.

Frozen yogurt

Choosing frozen yogurt over ice cream may seem like a healthier choice, but in terms of calories and simple sugars, it’s not that different to regular ice cream.

Multi-grain bread & crackers

Multi-grain may sound healthy, but they may not contain heart-healthy whole grains.  Many breads labeled with “multi-grain” are typically made with refined grains, so you aren’t getting the full nutritional benefit of the whole grain.  Instead, choose whole grain to ensure you’re getting all of the nutrients found in the grain’s kernel.

Low-fat peanut butter

With peanut butter, fat is your friend—it’s full of healthy monounsaturated fats.  When you choose low-fat peanut butter, the nutritional benefit has been removed and replaced with sugars and fillers.

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