It’s important to always read ingredients and choose whole, minimally processed foods whenever possible to support optimal health and wellbeing.
Here are six foods that should be avoided in order to follow a healthy diet – some of them may surprise you.
Granola
Granola is often perceived as a healthy breakfast or snack option due to its association with whole grains and nuts. However, many store-bought granolas are loaded with added sugars, unhealthy fats and calorie-dense ingredients like chocolate chips or dried fruit. Additionally, portion sizes can be deceiving, leading to overconsumption of calories and sugars. To make matters worse, some granolas may contain hydrogenated oils or artificial additives.
Opting for homemade granola or carefully reading labels to choose varieties with minimal added sugars and wholesome ingredients is key to ensuring you’re not unknowingly consuming a food that may be detrimental to your health goals.
Muesli bars
Now that you know granola isn’t always good for you, it probably won’t come as a surprise that granola bars often aren’t the healthiest option either. While often marketed as a healthy snack, many granola bars are packed with added sugars, unhealthy fats and artificial ingredients. Opt for homemade or carefully read labels to choose options with minimal added sugars and whole food ingredients.
Flavoured yoghurt
Flavoured yoghurt varieties often contain high amounts of added sugars, artificial flavours and preservatives. Instead, go for plain Greek yoghurt and add your own natural sweeteners, such as fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey, to control the sugar content.
Bottled salad dressings
Many bottled salad dressings are loaded with unhealthy fats, added sugars and artificial additives. Make your own salad dressings using simple ingredients like olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice and herbs to avoid unnecessary additives and control the quality of your dressing.
Frozen meals
While convenient, many frozen meals are high in sodium, preservatives and unhealthy fats. These meals often lack essential nutrients and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues when consumed regularly. Opt for homemade meals or choose frozen options with simple, whole food ingredients and minimal additives.
Pre-packaged smoothies
Pre-packaged smoothies may seem like a convenient way to get your fruits and veggies, but they often contain added sugars, artificial flavours and preservatives. Make your own smoothies at home using fresh or frozen fruits, vegetables and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for a healthier option.
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