7 "healthy" foods you should reduce or avoid

In recent years, interest in eating healthier has grown, and with it, the presence of products promoted as "good for you." However, not everything that claims to be healthy actually is. Many foods labeled "light," "low-fat," or "natural" may contain ingredients or processes that contradict their healthy image. Here we present some of the most common ones that are worth examining closely.

READ: Reasons why you should NOT consume Omega 3 on an empty stomach 1.- Low-fat yogurts

Although eliminating fat may seem positive, in many cases it's offset by higher amounts of sugar to maintain flavor. Some "light" yogurts can contain even more sugar than a soft drink. Ideally, opt for plain, unsweetened yogurt and, if desired, sweeten it with fresh fruit.

2.- Energy or granola bars

They're marketed as a quick and healthy option for those who exercise or lead busy lives. However, many of these bars contain high fructose corn syrup, saturated fats, and preservatives. In other words, they're more like candy than a nutritious snack.

3.- Packaged juices

Despite coming in packages with pictures of fresh fruit and promising vitamin benefits, most commercial juices are high in added sugars and very little fiber. Even those sold as "100% natural" may have lost key nutrients during processing.

4.- Breakfast cereals

Many cereals marketed as whole grain or "high-fiber" are loaded with sugar, sodium, and artificial additives. Advertising may highlight their vitamin and mineral content, but the reality is that these are artificially added after processing the natural ingredients.

5.- “Light” sauces and dressings

Low-fat dressings often include thickeners, sugar, and sodium to compensate for the loss of flavor. The result is a highly processed product that can be more harmful than its original, full-fat version.

6.- Industrialized whole wheat bread

Even though they're labeled "whole grain," many commercial breads contain refined flours as the first ingredient and only a small percentage of whole grain. They may also add sugars and preservatives to improve texture and shelf life.

READ: What should a person with fluid retention not eat? 7. Gluten-free products

Unless you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, there's no medical reason to avoid it. Many "gluten-free" products are higher in calories and made with refined flours or starches that provide little nutritional value.

What to do about this?

Reading labels is key. It's not enough to rely on the big words on the packaging: you need to check the ingredient list and nutritional information. As a general rule, the less processed a food is, the better it is for your health.

Not all products presented as healthy are actually healthy. Being informed and critical of advertising is essential to making informed choices that truly benefit your body.

BB