Dietitians Suggest These 5 Viral Foods May Not Be as Nutritious as They Seem

Health halos are a prevalent phenomenon in the world of food and beverages. These halos are created through clever marketing and scientific-sounding nutrition claims to make certain products appear much healthier than they actually are. While some trends in the health and wellness industry are genuinely beneficial, many others are misleading consumers into thinking they are making healthier choices than they really are.

Kristin Kirkpatrick, a registered dietitian at the Cleveland Clinic Department of Wellness & Preventive Medicine, warns that it’s essential to dig deep into the nutrition facts of products that make bold health claims. Not all products that tout being gluten-free, plant-based, or high in certain nutrients are actually as healthy as they claim. Many of these foods are packed with hidden sugars, saturated fats, and sodium, while lacking in essential nutrients.

One common food item that often carries an unearned health halo is oat milk. Oat milk has gained popularity as a creamy and tasty alternative to cow’s milk, but nutritionally, it falls short compared to soy or cow’s milk. Many oat milk brands do not meet the USDA nutrition standards for plant-based milk alternatives, particularly in terms of protein content. It is essential for consumers to look for fortified oat milk brands that are high in nutrients like calcium and vitamins D and A to make it a healthier option.

Plant-based meat is another food trend that has a health halo, as it appeals to those looking to reduce their meat consumption for health reasons. However, not all plant-based meat alternatives are created equal. Some products contain high amounts of saturated fat and sodium, which can be detrimental to cardiovascular health. Consumers should carefully read food labels to choose plant-based meat products with healthier ingredients like avocado oil, red lentils, and fava beans.

Green juices are often perceived as a healthy way to consume fruits and vegetables, but many commercial green juices are loaded with sugar from fruit purees and lack the fiber found in whole fruits and vegetables. It’s essential to consume whole fruits and vegetables alongside green juices to ensure a balanced diet.

Gluten-free foods have gained popularity, with many believing that cutting out gluten can lead to various health benefits. However, gluten-free packaged products often lack essential nutrients found in gluten-containing foods. Natural gluten-free foods like quinoa, brown rice, and lentil pasta are better options for maintaining a healthy diet.

Smoothies can be a nutritious option when made with wholesome ingredients like milk, yogurt, and fresh produce. However, many commercially available smoothies contain added sugars and saturated fats, making them more like desserts than healthy snacks. Consumers should focus on making smoothies at home with whole-food ingredients to ensure they are a nutritious choice.

In conclusion, it’s important for consumers to be aware of health halos and carefully examine food labels to make informed choices about their diet. While some food trends may seem healthy on the surface, a closer look at their nutritional content reveals a different story. By prioritizing whole, nutrient-dense foods and avoiding heavily processed products, individuals can make better choices for their overall health and well-being.