4 Foods You Think Are Healthy But Aren't

4 Foods You Think Are Healthy But Aren't

Don’t be fooled by these pseudo “health” foods & swap for something that’s actually good for you

With all the marketing and mixed information out there, it’s easy to fall into the trap of consuming foods you believe to be healthy, but actually are not!  

FIT busts the cover on 4 foods commonly perceived to be healthy, which should actually be added to the no-go list. 

 

Breakfast cereals 

Arguably the most common Australian breakfast choice, thousands of people start their day with a bowl of one of the many popular breakfast cereals on the market. Stop! Most commercial cereals are actually highly processed, contain large amounts of sugar, with minimal fibre, protein or nutrients. It’s likely they could end up leaving you hungry shortly afterwards and spiking your blood sugar so you crave more sweet things later in the day. 

Swap it: 

If you want a cereal for breakfast, nothing beats old-fashioned oatmeal! Oats are filling, nourishing and low GI. You can add fresh fruit and nuts or nut butters to make it interesting.  
 
For the gluten sensitive, quinoa or buckwheat based breakfast bowls are also another healthy and delicious option. 
 

 

Bottled juice & smoothies 

There is a big difference between fresh smoothies and juices and the ones you buy pre-made in a bottle. Don’t be fooled by their health promising blurbs! As a general rule, store bought bottled smoothies and juices have been pasteurised, which strips most of the nutrients from them. Many also contain preservatives to extend the shelf life and have unnaturally high quantities of fruit, which bulks up the calories and sugar content. 

Swap it: 

Fresh is best. Make your own or visit us at our Bondi flagship store to get a smoothie when you are on the run – we will have you out the door with your nutritionist formulated, low-sugar blend in less time than it takes to do 15 burpees.  

 

 

Low-fat yoghurt 

Many people buy low-fat yoghurt believing it to be a healthy, waistline friendly option. Unfortunately when the fat is removed, it is often compensated for with sugar and other nasty ingredients, such as thickeners or artificial sweeteners. The end result is a product that wreaks havoc on your blood sugar, hormones and/or adds a chemical load to your body. 

Swap it: 

More recent evidence has disproved the theory that fat is bad. In fact, moderate quantities of fats are important for overall health, so skip the fat-free and low-far varieties and opt for plain, whole milk, organic yoghurt. Full-fat yoghurt is also more satiating, so it will help keep you full for longer. 
For those who don’t tolerate cow dairy, some great alternatives are coconut, sheep, goat or almond milk yoghurts. 
 

 

Trail mix 

Trail mix might seem like a convenient and healthy snack food, but most are not! The calories and sugars can really add up in just a couple of handfuls. Many are made with salted nuts and excessive dried fruit or other sugary additions.  

Swap it: 

A healthy version is possible, but it’s better to make it yourself so you know what is in there. Throw in superfoods like goji berries for bonus points!