6 "healthy" foods that fitness pros avoid - Moose River

The pressure to eat nutritious food and lead a healthy lifestyle is certainly nothing new. But many are confused by the latest trends promoting “wellness”. Should we use protein powder or is it harmful? Should we eat meat or should we go vegan? While fitness experts recommend increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables and focusing on protein foods and whole grains, some “healthy” foods are actually not that healthy. Professional fitness trainers, sports nutritionists and physical therapists have shared the foods they personally try to avoid. We have collected them for you. Remember that not all diets are right for everyone, so it’s best to check with your doctor before making dietary changes.

1. Light dairy products

Skimmed milk has been an important part of diet culture for many years. But experts often think low-fat dairy isn’t as healthy as it sounds. In order for your body to absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, you need to consume fat. Light foods may contain fewer calories, but they contain more sugar to make up for less fat.

For example, full-fat yogurt contains 7 grams of sugar per serving, while low-fat yogurt of the same size can contain 10 grams of sugar. What’s more, low-fat yogurt may not make you feel as full as full-fat yogurt. In general, nutritionists and fitness trainers say that fatty foods should be preferred over low-fat dairy products. But on the condition that the portion will be reduced. For example, you can eat half a bowl of full-fat yogurt instead of a bowl of light yogurt.

2. Sports and energy drinks

Energy drinks have been an important part of gyms for many years. Energetic college students and night shift workers also often consume these drinks. However, experts warn that energy drinks do more harm than good. Because these foods are full of harmful ingredients and sugar.

3. Protein bars

Protein is one of the cornerstones of a healthy diet. Protein bars are positioned as a healthy and energizing food for busy people and athletes. When you look at the ingredients in these products, you will see that they are often full of artificial sugars and harmful substances. Compare a protein bar and chicken breast. Yes, they may contain the same amount of protein, but this protein bar is actually a protein candy bar. It’s loaded with highly processed artificial sweeteners. It definitely won’t give you the same energy, nutrients and building blocks as chicken.

4. Granola

This ingredient may surprise you because muesli is often marketed as a health food. But prepackaged muesli is generally no different from other boxed breakfast cereals. Granolas are high in sugar and artificial ingredients with no nutritional value. Even if instant muesli manufacturers claim they are whole grain, low fat, or organic, they often have added sugar. Granola is mostly carbs. Starchy, high-sugar carbohydrates burn quickly in the body, raise blood sugar levels, are nutritionally deficient, and don’t give you enough satiety or energy. It can even wreak havoc on energy levels.

5. Meat products of plant origin

The popularity of plant-based “meat” products has been rapid and impressive, with popular fast food chains now including meat-free burger patties on their menus. Some of them can be tasty and practical. But many foods are highly processed and contain sodium, preservatives, and artificial ingredients. It’s far better to stick to whole foods like vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support our health and fitness goals.

6. Gluten free bread

People with celiac disease or other forms of gluten intolerance should of course not consume gluten. However, for those who do not have such diseases, it is definitely worth staying away from gluten-free products. Gluten is a type of protein found in grains such as wheat, barley and rye. Therefore, it should be in your diet.

6 “healthy” foods that fitness pros avoid