At Integrative Cardiology Center of Long Island, our team wants to stress the direct correlation between your diet and overall health. We also understand how sometimes marketing can lead people to believe that the food they are eating is healthy when in reality, it is not. To help you escape falling victim to this, we’d like to call out some of the most common “healthy” foods that are anything but that.

Yogurt-Covered Raisins

It’s easy to assume that this product is extremely healthy to eat. On their own, both raisins and yogurt are great options for healthy snacks. However, the marketing of this product is very misleading. Yogurt-covered raisins are coated with sugar, eliminating the health benefits both raisins and yogurt can bring.

Trail Mix 

Another favorite amongst the foods that are thought to be healthy is trail mix. While many trail mixes do contain healthy components like nuts and seeds, they usually also contain unhealthy components like chocolate, oils, and added sugars. Additionally, trail mix tends to be extremely high in calories and is very easy to overindulge in. If you’re a trail mix lover, try making your own at home! This way, you know exactly what’s in it and you can load it up with nutritious goodies.

Bottled Fruit Smoothies & Juices

Thinking that bottled fruit smoothies or juices are a healthy way to get your fruit intake is a common misconception. Many fruit smoothies often contain at least 50 grams of sugar per serving! Instead of purchasing pre-packaged fruits and juices, it is best to make your own at home. This guarantees that there are no hidden added sugars or weird ingredients.

“Fat-Free” Foods

Another common misconception is that snacks and foods labeled as “low-fat” or “fat-free” are good for you. Fats tend to get a bad reputation due to marketing. Not only are unsaturated fats safe to consume, but they also help to add flavor. To help make up for their bland tastes, “fat-free” foods are often loaded with added sugars. It is best to avoid packaged foods like these regardless, as they tend to be highly processed and filled with ingredients you’ve never heard of. Consuming whole, real foods is always your best bet!

Don’t Fall For Marketing  

When it comes to trying to pick out healthy foods and snacks, it’s easy to fall victim to clever marketing. Just because something contains fruit or is labeled “low-fat” or “fat-free” doesn’t mean it is good or you. If you’re trying to make improvements to your diet, the first step should be eating foods in their whole, natural form. Doing so allows you to consume foods when they are in their most nutritious state. Such foods include:

  • Fresh fruits.
  • Fresh vegetables.
  • Leafy greens.
  • Beans and legumes.
  • Nuts.
  • Whole grains.

Contact Us

By taking the steps to get the most out of your nutrition, not only will you improve your heart health, but you will greatly improve your quality of life. If you are suffering from heart problems or are looking to live a more heart-healthy lifestyle, the team here at Integrative Cardiology Center of Long Island is here to help. Be sure to contact us to get started today!