Health news website 'Very Well Health' warns that product labels and marketing slogans do not always reflect what the body actually needs, and advises checking food ingredients before purchasing. Many companies market foods like protein bars and gluten-free snacks as 'healthy,' but they can be full of sugar, salt, fat, and artificial ingredients. The site has identified 6 foods that appear healthy but are actually harmful. 1. Granola and Protein Bars Most protein bars are full of oats, chocolate, sugars, and sweeteners, and the serving size on the label is often incorrect. 2. Crispy Vegetable Chips Vegetable chips may seem like a healthy choice at first glance, but their name can be misleading. These products are fried in oil and seasoned with salt, which affects their nutritional value. 3. Packaged Juices Packaged juices can be deceptive, as one bottle may contain two servings. They can also cause digestive issues for some people. Many manufacturers use concentrated juices instead of fruit, causing a loss of fiber. 4. Fat-free and Sugar-free Products Many diets promote these products, but they rarely offer the health benefits they promise. When fats and carbohydrates are removed from food, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein are often lost as well. These products often rely on artificial additives to restore flavor and texture. 5. Gluten-free Products Gluten-free bread and pasta are not necessarily healthier and do not aid in weight loss or improving blood pressure or diabetes. They often rely on refined starches like rice or potatoes and lack fiber and protein. 6. Plant-based Meat and Dairy Many products marketed as plant-based meat or dairy are actually high in fat, salt, sugar, and additives to compensate for taste and texture. When looking for alternatives to meat and dairy, it is recommended to consume foods that provide the essential vitamins and minerals the body needs.
