While many foods marketed as "healthy" can contain hidden sugars, here are five examples:
1. Yogurt:
Flavored yogurts often contain added sugars to enhance taste. Even some plain yogurts can have high sugar content. It's better to opt for plain, unsweetened yogurt and add your own fruit for flavor.
2. Granola
Granola may seem like a healthful choice, but it often contains added sugars to enhance its flavor. Check the label and choose brands with lower sugar content or make your own at home with minimal added sweeteners.
3. Smoothies
While smoothies can be packed with nutrients from fruits and vegetables, they can also be loaded with sugars, especially if sweetened with fruit juices, flavored yogurt, or sweetened nut milks. Be mindful of portion sizes and ingredients when making or purchasing smoothies.
4. Dried Fruit
Dried fruits can be a convenient and nutritious snack, but they often have concentrated sugar content due to the removal of water. Enjoy dried fruits in moderation and opt for varieties without added sugars.
5. Protein Bars
Many protein bars are marketed as healthy snacks, but they can contain significant amounts of added sugars to improve taste and texture. Look for bars with minimal added sugars and ingredients you can pronounce.
Always check nutrition labels and ingredient lists to make informed choices about the foods you consume, even if they're marketed as "healthy."