The pressure to maintain a nutritious diet and lead a healthy lifestyle is not a new concept, but recent wellness trends have turned health-conscious eating into a booming industry. While fitness experts recommend increasing fruit and vegetable intake, focusing on energy-boosting proteins and whole grains, there are certain “healthy” foods that may not work for everyone. We asked professional fitness trainers, athletic coaches, sports nutritionists, and physical therapists about the foods they personally avoid. Here are six commonly viewed as healthy but can cause complications for some individuals. Remember, not all diets are suitable for everyone, so it’s always best to consult with a doctor before making any dietary changes.
Here are the six “healthy” foods to be cautious of:
1. Low-Fat Yogurt and Dairy: While skim milk and low-fat dairy products have been a staple in diet culture for years, experts argue they aren’t as beneficial as they may seem. Eating fat is essential for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. Many low-fat yogurts contain added sugars to compensate for the lower fat content, which can make you feel less full compared to full-fat yogurt. Nutritionists and fitness coaches often suggest replacing low-fat dairy products with smaller portions of full-fat options for long-term health goals. However, individuals with respiratory issues may find that dairy causes discomfort, in which case coconut milk yogurt can be a suitable alternative.
2. Sports and Energy Drinks: Sports drinks like Gatorade and Powerade, along with caffeinated energy drinks like RedBull and Monster, have been popular among athletes and those seeking an energy boost. However, these drinks often contain unnecessary sugars and other unhelpful ingredients. Many sports drinks have high sugar content, so it’s important to check nutritional labels and limit added sugar intake to under 10% of daily calorie consumption. Energy drinks can have serious health risks due to high caffeine and sugar content, leading to increased blood pressure, weight gain, headaches, anxiety, dental issues, dehydration, and heart disease.
3. Protein Bars: Protein bars are advertised as healthy and energizing snacks, but fitness professionals are skeptical. Whole protein sources are generally more beneficial for the body than protein bars, which often contain artificial ingredients and excessive sugars. Additionally, some protein bars lack transparency about their ingredients, which can be misleading for consumers.
4. Granola: While granola is often considered a healthy food choice, pre-packaged granolas tend to have high sugar content and lack essential nutrients like protein and healthy fats. They primarily consist of quick-burning, glucose-spiking carbohydrates that fail to keep you full or energized for an extended period. Granola bars face similar issues and are often low in fiber and high in sugar and processed additives.
5. Plant-Based Meat Products: The popularity of plant-based “meat” alternatives has soared, but many of these products are heavily processed and contain added sodium, preservatives, and artificial ingredients. Opting for whole, minimally processed foods like vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is generally a healthier choice.
6. “Gluten-Free” Bread: Gluten-free bread products are essential for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, but it’s important to be cautious. Some gluten-free bread options may still be packed with unhealthy additives and lack essential nutrients. When choosing gluten-free bread, opt for those made from whole, minimally processed ingredients.
Remember, individual dietary needs vary, so it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant dietary changes.
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