“Good” stuff that’s BAD

posted by Jennifer Ansell in Best Practices on Sep 09, 2011


So you want to try to eat better? Well, as I always say, Caveat emptor - Buyer beware!

Energy Bars

They have healthy fiber and proteins.

BUT…

They’re usually loaded with calories. As a meal replacement – go ahead; but as a snack? Think again – you may as well have a chocolate bar (same number of calories) for all the good it will do you unless you’re in marathon training.

Granola

Grains and nuts are a great idea.

BUT…

Most granola has high fat, sugar and calorie counts despite what it says on the packaging. Check out the portion sizes they’re using for those numbers (1/2 cup or less!). And watch out if you’re topping your granola with…

Yogurt

Calcium and healthy bacteria – perfect!

BUT…

Heat-treated yogurt kills the bacteria but extends its shelf life. Whole-milk yogurts are full of saturated fat. The “fruit” in them is actually a jam. Look for low fat and live yogurt and add your own fruit. And that low-fat advice also works for…

Smoothies

Great way to get a quick fruit fix.

BUT…

Drinking fruit is less filling per calorie than eating fresh fruit. Add in yogurt and you’re heading for trouble. Also, many “smoothies” are made with powders – this is NOT a healthy alternative.

Salads

So at least you can get your fresh veggies in a salad.

BUT…

It’s what you put ON the salad that’s the problem here. Add on creamy dressings and nuts, bacon bits or cheese and you may as well have those bacon bits on a cheeseburger.

Sushi and stir fries

Fish, rice and veggies are a good combination.

BUT…

In this case it’s what INSIDE that’s the problem. Inside a lot of sushi rolls there is mayonnaise in many of the sauces as well as fried morsels. And that soy sauce you’re dipping the pieces in? Even light soy has 660 mgs per tablespoon. Watch the guy making your take-out pad thai – he’s adding a lot of soy sauce and, too often, MSG (1 teaspoon has 492 mgs) as well.

NEXT MONTH - “BAD” food that’s Good!

 


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