Don’t be fooled by the “healthy foods” out there. Read on for few examples:
Trail Mix
Nuts and dried fruit trail mix is obviously a healthy choice, right? Wrong!
While plain, natural mixes of unsalted nuts and unsweetened dried fruits can make for a good portion-controlled, high-energy snack, many mixes throw in chocolate chips, loads of salt, and added sugars. Since a small handful easily contains 300-plus calories, read your nutrition labels closely!
Granola
With rolled oats, nuts, and dried fruits, granola seems so healthy. What is misleading though is how much sugar and extra calories are lurking in granola. A bowl of this stuff can easily contain 500 or more calories—and that’s without the milk! Indulge smartly by choosing high-fiber varieties with low sugar. And stick to the recommended portion size on the label.
Smoothies
Smoothies have long been the darling of the health-food world. Although some smoothies made with simple, whole-food ingredients can be healthy, don’t get fooled into thinking anything with the name “smoothie” is good for you. Some smoothies are made with lots of added sugars, high-calorie ingredients like chocolate syrup, or even use full-fat ice cream as a base. Your best smoothie bet? Make one at home so that you know exactly what’s in it! Click here to check out the BBE Smoothie Recipe.
Chicken Wrap
There was a time about 10 years ago when anything in a wrap became synonymous with “health food.” Problem is, even when you fill wheat tortillas up with tons of veggies and lean protein, the ginormous tortilla itself can contain 400 to 800 calories—not to mention the high-calorie sauces usually in them. Your best bet is to order it sans tortilla! Try wrapping your chicken in lettuce leafs instead!
Gluten-Free Products
Gluten-free products are all the rage these days. Although some gluten-free products are healthy, by no means does the label “gluten-free” equate to health. If it’s packaged or processed, gluten or no gluten, it’s not as healthy as other whole foods you could be eating. The best gluten-free foods aren’t products at all, they’re fresh fruits and vegetables!