5 Sneaky ‘Health’ Foods Unveiling their Ultra-Processed Secrets, Revealed by a Knowledgeable Dietitian
Unveiling 5 health foods that secretly fall into the ultra-processed category, as revealed by a seasoned dietitian
Dietitian Taylor Grasso says that some salad kits include additives and added salt and sugar. Taylor Grasso/ getty
Dear fashion lovers, hold onto your haute couture hats because I’ve got some news for you! It turns out that some of the so-called “healthy” foods we’ve been devouring like fashionistas on a shopping spree are actually ultra-processed. But fear not, my fabulous friends, as a dietitian has spilled the beans on how to style these rebellious foods into a balanced diet.
Picture this, you’re strolling through the supermarket aisles, shopping cart in hand, feeling like a fierce fashionista. Your eyes land on those protein bars that promise to make you feel like a runway model. But wait! Did you know that some of these bars are hiding ultra-processed ingredients that can do more harm than good? Fear not, my darlings, you can still indulge in one bar a day and stay on the fashion-forward path by choosing those with minimal ingredients, 2 to 4 grams of fiber, 15 to 20 grams of protein, and 250 calories or less.
Now, let’s talk about veggie sausages. They’re like the sustainable fashion of the culinary world, but beware, my lovelies. Some of these sausages are more processed than your favorite Instagram filter and packed with enough sodium to make your taste buds weep. Fear not, meat lovers, for there are other options! Low-sodium turkey or chicken sausages can be your style statement, offering high protein content, limited ingredients, and lower sodium and saturated fat than some of their veggie counterparts. It’s all about making the right fashion choices for your dietary preferences, darlings.
Oh, the glorious salad! It’s like the little black dress of the food world, a perfect canvas for fashionable nutrition. But beware, my fashion-forward foodies, not all salad kits are created equal. Some carry additives and toppings that can add more drama to your calorie count than your favorite reality TV show. Fear not, my fashion mavens, for I have the inside scoop! Opt for salad kits that not only include lettuce but also other fashionable veggies like kale, brussels sprouts, and broccoli. They will give your salad a nutrient boost that even Anna Wintour would envy. And remember, darling, less is more when it comes to dressings. Use only half or two-thirds of the processed packet, or channel your inner designer and create your own using heart-protective olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and spices.
Let’s talk milky fashion! Plant-based milks have been strutting down the catwalk of alternative dairy for quite some time. But hold your almond milk, my dear trendsetters, and listen up! These milks can contain emulsifiers and additives that make them more processed than cow’s milk. But fear not, my chicettes, for there’s still a way to milk it right. Cow’s milk is the haute couture of the dairy world, high in protein and sporting a fabulous nutrient profile with vitamin D and calcium. If you crave plant-based milk, soy milk is the closest match to cow’s milk when it comes to nutrients. Most nut-based milks are low in calories and protein, so to glam up your balanced diet, go for the soy option.
Last but not least, trail mix! It’s like the accessory that adds a touch of glamour to your snacking routine. But hold up, my glamazons, because not all trail mixes are created equal. Some store-bought versions are sprinkled with excess sugar and salt like they’ve just stepped off a runway in an avant-garde fashion show. Fear not, my snack-loving divas, for you can still satisfy your cravings by making your own trail mix. Grab some unsweetened dried fruit and unsalted nuts, and voila! You’ve got a snack that would make even Victoria Beckham smile. But if time is not on your side, darling, make sure to choose store-bought trail mixes with less added sugar and salt.
So, my fashion-forward foodies, remember that the fashion world isn’t all black and white, and neither is the food world. There are no “good” or “bad” foods, just like there are no fashion faux pas, only fashion statements. It’s all about finding the right balance, showcasing the best ingredients your body can adore. Now go forth, my stylish darlings, and conquer the world of healthy fashion, one ultra-processed piece at a time!
👠 What’s your favorite “healthy” food that turned out to be a fashion disaster in disguise? Share your style stories in the comments below! 👗
