THE 9 MOST DANGEROUS

HEALTH FOOD

Protein Bars

They seem like a healthy snack replacement, but they can contain more than twice the amount of fat and

carbs as a chocolate brownie. To steer clear of needless calories, look for options

that have less than 180 calories and 5 grams fat, and provide at least 5 grams of fiber.

Dried Fruit

With more than 100 calories per ¼ cup serving, calories can add up quickly when you’re eating dried

fruit.

Eating fresh or frozen fruits instead, You'll be able to eat a larger, more satisfying serving for fewer calories

and feel fuller from the fluids

Margarine

Margarine has more trans fat, which simultaneously raises your “bad” (LDL) cholesterol and lowers “good”

(HDL) cholesterol, according to the Mayo Clinic. It’s the one ingredient that dietitians recommend to

avoid completely. To limit your risk of heart disease, choose whipped

butter, which has a lower caloric density.

Yogurt

Yogurt in any form is a good source of calcium & vitamin D. But some brands have as

much fat and sugar as a jelly-donut.

Be sure you’re only getting the good stuff by choosing

plain, low-fat versions. Flavor them on your own with fruit

& honey.

Plain Greek Yogurt offers twice as much protein and half the amount of carbs as

the traditional type

Reduced-Fat Peanut Butter

When manufacturers take fat out of peanut butter, they replace it with sugars.

As a result, reduced-fat peanut butter has the same total calories as the original, but more than twice the amount of carbs. It’s better to stick with the regular

stuff. You’ll eat less, because the full-fat version is more

satisfying and filling.

Fat-Free Salad Dressing

If you’re watching your blood pressure, steer clear of this stuff. In just two measly tablespoons of fat-free Italian dressing, you take in up to 500mg of blood-

pressure-raising sodium. Instead, make your own low-salt dressing by

combining balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and flavor-packed seasonings like pepper, turmeric and mustard

seed.

Bran Muffins

A typical bran muffin has more than 400 calories and up to 15 grams of fat, with most of the calories

coming from sugar and refined flour. Think of these as a decadent treat, not a healthy

coffee companion.

The best bet is to make a lower-fat, portion controlled version at home.

Turkey Burgers

The average restaurant-style turkey burger has more than 600 calories and 30 grams of fat – and that’s

without the bun or toppings.

The next time you’re wondering which burger to choose, don’t worry about the type of meat.

Instead, limit your portion size by sharing it with a friend, or going open-faced.

Sushi

Sushi rolls can be deceiving, because they’re packed

tightly and look small, but some are calorie bombs just

waiting to blow up your waistline.

A single roll can pack more than 500 calories.

To steer clear of these calorie-dense tripwires, avoid any roll that includes these ingredients: tempura (which

is another word for deep fried), cream cheese,

shredded cheese, or spicy mayo sauce.