Healthy eating is not just about the name or label. In fact, many familiar foods, praised as "healthy", are silently pushing back the goal of controlling weight and overall health if consumed unconsciously.
When "healthy food" becomes a calorie trap
Granola and granola bars are often considered symbols of a healthy lifestyle. But behind the whole grain shells are honey, syrup, dried fruits soaked in sugar and baking oil. Just a small bowl of granola can reach the milestone of 300 - 400 calories, not including milk or yogurt included.
Smoothies and acai bowls are also similar. Many versions use fruit juice or milk with sugar as a base, plus granola, nut butter, honey. Lack of protein and fiber makes the feeling of fullness quickly disappear. Dr. Brittany Poulson, clinical nutritionist at Utah State University (USA), warns: "Sinceress are only really healthy when you control the ingredients and portions. Otherwise, it's no different from a liquid dessert.
Fragrant yogurt is another typical example. Many products contain up to 15-20 grams of added sugar per serving. The "fruit at the bottom of the cup" version is usually sweeter syrup than real fruit. A safer option is still pure Greek yogurt, with fresh fruit added.
Vegetable-fried potatoes may sound green, but most are just refined starch, added salt and oil, the amount of vegetables is almost symbolic. They cannot replace fresh vegetables in terms of nutrition.
Read labels, understand portion sizes to avoid "eating the wrong" for health
Mixtures of nuts and dried fruits are inherently nutritious, but calories increase very quickly if eaten uncontrollably. Dried fruits with added sugar, chocolate or yogurt make this snack easily exceed daily energy needs.
Foods without gluten are also often misunderstood as better. In fact, many packaged products use white rice flour, cassava starch, low fiber and high sugar and oil to taste. Without medical prescription, traditional whole grains are still a more sustainable choice.
Salad is only "green" when it is not submerged in cream sauce, bacon, cheese or fried bread. A bowl of salad can go from light to heavy after just a few spoons of sauce.
Protein bars are convenient, but many types resemble sugary candies disguised as nutritional, with syrup, saturated fat and very little fiber. Fruit juice is also the same: squeezing away fiber means that sugar is absorbed faster, making it difficult to control blood sugar.
Finally, rolled bread. Large size, refined flour and filling with a lot of cheese and fatty sauce make the calories sometimes even higher than traditional sandwiches.
Eating healthily is not following the trend. It is to return to the old but true principles: low-processed foods, moderate portions, carefully reading labels and understanding your body. Health does not like noise, but always requires alertness.
It's a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit.
