20. Fat-free packaged foods
Don’t allow yourself to be fooled by fad ‘diet’ foods, says nutritionist Rima Kleiner, MS, RD.
Though it might be a smart marketing move on the part of major food corporations, labels like fat free, sugar free, and anything free – are deceptive.
“Even after years of research showing us that our bodies need healthful fats, I still hear clients who consider packaged ‘fat free’ foods the pinnacle of healthy eating,” says Kleiner.
“But many of these packaged products that should naturally contain fat (think cookies, crackers and bars) replace the fat with sugar, which means you end up with a cookie or other product that contains less fat, maybe a few less calories, but with little to no redeeming nutritional qualities,” she explains.
“If I’m craving something sweet, I try to make my own so I can use healthful fats like olive oil, flax seeds and avocados, or I will just buy a single-serving brownie or cookie from a good bakery to share with my husband or kids.”
21. Pretzels
Don’t tell the street vendors in New York City, but their sought-after midtown snack is actually pretty terrible for the tourists.
Registered dietitian Cara Walsh explains: “Pretzels are basically made out of sugar – simple carbs. The refined-carbohydrate product contains no nutrients that are beneficial for health plus they aren’t satisfying, which is why so many people tend to overeat them.”
22. Rice cakes
Once a supposed diet hero, these carb bombs are finally getting the shade they deserve.
“Rice cakes are made from a specific carbohydrate that skyrockets your blood sugar,” says Walsh.
They still hold a fascination for the calorie conscious, but Walsh is begging everyone to reconsider.