Exposed: Are Your “Healthy” Snacks Really Healthy?

In today’s health-conscious world, many people are opting for alternatives they believe to be healthier than traditional snacks and meals. Products like granola bars, aata noodles, and protein shakes have become popular, touted as better choices over regular snacks such as potato chips or instant noodles. But are these “healthy” alternatives really good for you? This article delves into the truth behind these products and what you should be aware of when choosing your next meal or snack.

The Illusion of Health

It’s become fashionable to reach for foods labeled as low-fat, gluten-free, vegan, or sugar-free, thinking they are healthier. However, many of these so-called healthy alternatives may not be as beneficial as they appear. Pooja Malhotra, a nutritionist, and Revant Himatsingka, a health influencer, both emphasize that marketing can be misleading. Labels and taglines often create a false sense of security, making people believe they are making healthier choices.

Pooja Malhotra states, “Tag lines such as low fat, low sugar, or diabetic-friendly are a sure-shot trap.” She advises reading labels carefully to understand what you are actually consuming. Revant Himatsingka adds, “Junk food pretending to be healthy is even more dangerous than junk food because when we think something is healthy, we eat too much of it.”

Hidden Dangers in “Healthy” Foods

Here are some common “healthy” foods that may not be as good for you as you think:

1. Digestive Biscuits: Despite their name, digestive biscuits are often made with refined flour and sugar, providing little to no health benefits.
2. Granola Bars: While some granola bars contain nutrients, many are packed with added sugars and preservatives. They can be just as unhealthy as traditional snacks.
3. Protein Shakes and Bars: Many people believe that high protein content equals a healthier option. However, these products often contain artificial sweeteners, colors, and other unnecessary ingredients.
4. Breakfast Cereals: These might seem like a smart start to the day, but many are made from refined grains, lacking essential nutrients like protein and fiber. They also contain added sugars.
5. Brown Bread: Often marketed as healthier than white bread, brown bread can be just as bad. The brown color is sometimes achieved through added colors, and it may still contain refined flour and added sugars.
6. Packaged Juice: These juices claim to offer real fruit goodness, but they are often made from concentrates with added sugars and calories.

Also Read: FSSAI Bans 7 Food Items to Protect Public Health

The Importance of Reading Labels

Dr. Arun Gupta, a pediatrician, and Pooja Malhotra, a nutritionist, both stress the importance of reading food labels. Dr. Gupta advises, “Read the back of the pack label because the front of the pack is going to mislead you. Avoid products where sugar or fat content is more than 10%.”

Malhotra’s advice is straightforward: “Buy minimal amounts of processed, preserved, and packaged food items. If it comes from a plant, eat it; if it is manufactured in a plant, then don’t eat it.”

How to Choose Truly Healthy Foods

To become a conscious consumer, you need to understand what to look for when grocery shopping:

• Whole Foods: Opt for whole foods that are less processed. These are often found around the perimeter of grocery stores.
• Low Sodium, Saturated Fat, and Added Sugars: Choose items with low amounts of these ingredients.
• Beware of Sneaky Ingredients: Added sugars and sodium can go by many names, so familiarize yourself with these terms.
• Look for Whole Grains: Ensure that the food labels indicate whole grains, whether in bread, cereals, or crackers.
• FSSAI Mark: In India, check for the FSSAI mark on packaged foods for safety assurance.

Conclusion

In the quest for a healthier lifestyle, it is crucial to look beyond the marketing and understand what is truly in your food. Granola bars, aata noodles, and similar products may not always be the healthy options they claim to be. By reading labels carefully and making informed choices, you can ensure that your diet is genuinely nutritious and beneficial for your health. Stay informed, stay healthy!

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