1. Granola
Granola is so often associated with healthy things that the term 'granola' is used to describe super health-conscious people. It's found in products like yogurt and acai bowls, leading people to believe that it's very good for you. However, several brands of store-bought granola can be loaded with sugar and other ingredients that can do more harm than good.
"Often calorie-dense and high in added sugars and oils, many granola brands can pack in more calories than what you may think," explained Ro Huntriss, RD, and Chief Nutrition Officer at Simple Life App.
"Choose granola with no added sugar and a short ingredient list, or opt for plain oats with fruit and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds."
2. Veggie Pasta
Pasta is often labeled as a food that isn't great for weight loss, as it's traditionally a white, refined source of carbs. In the grocery store, you may see whole-grain pasta or even "veggie pasta" which often claims to contain a serving of vegetables in each portion. However, Dr. Hector Perez, the Lead Bariatric Surgeon at Renew Bariatrics notes that vegetable pasta is nowhere near as good for you as eating an actual serving of fibrous vegetables.
"It still behaves like a carb," he said. "Patients overeat it thinking it's guilt-free."
You'd likely have more success enjoying a recommended serving of whole-grain pasta alongside a hearty serving of vegetables like zucchini, spinach, and more.
3. Protein Bars
While protein bars can make an efficient and filling snack on the go, some of them can contain ingredients that aren't very good for you when consumed frequently. Huntriss explains that you may as well enjoy a sugary candy bar instead of eating certain protein bars.
"While convenient, some protein bars are filled with added sugars, syrups, and preservatives, making them closer to candy bars than a health food," she added.
"Choose bars with whole food ingredients, minimal sugar, and at least 10 grams of protein, or snack on a boiled egg and a piece of fruit for a natural protein boost with some extra nutrients."
4. Premade Smoothies
Have you ever looked at a shelf full of colorful, premade smoothies in a grocery store and thought they looked amazing? Well, you may want to think again before picking one out and drinking it, thinking it's very healthy.
"Many bottled smoothies contain added sugars, juice concentrates, and oversized portions, turning what seems like a healthy choice into a high-calorie, high-sugar drink," explained Huntriss.
While some bottled smoothies may contain many different kinds of fruit, they can still cause intense blood sugar spikes and contain up to 50 grams of sugar in a bottle.
As nice as they are for convenience, Huntriss suggests making your own smoothies at home with frozen fruit, vegetables like spinach, and added sources of protein like protein powder and Greek yogurt. Better yet, you can make your own at-home smoothie packs for a quick treat!
5. Veggie Chips
Because potato chips have so many downsides when eaten frequently, many companies have tried to create "healthier" alternatives with vegetable-based chips and crispy straws. However, when you see bags of these, you'll want to check the ingredients list, as they often contain more unhealthy ingredients than they do vegetables.
"Despite their name, most veggie chips are made from vegetable powders and starches, then fried or baked with added salt and oil," said Huntriss.
"Snack on raw vegetables with hummus or try roasted chickpeas or air-popped popcorn for a crunch with real nutrients."
6. Dried Fruit
You might be reading 'dried fruit' thinking it doesn't belong on this list. Still, many brands and varieties of dried fruit sold in grocery stores may be coated in sweeteners and sugar, taking away from their nutritional value. Therefore, reading nutrition labels is crucial.
"It's candy with a health halo," noted Dr. Perez.
"A small handful of dried mango can be 30 grams of sugar. And it won't fill you up."
As easy to pack dried fruit can be, if you really want lasting benefits, you can play it safe by eating natural, seasonal fruits that are delicious and full of fiber.