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.
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.
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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