We all love to indulge in a few snacks now and again, but some snacks are simply terrible for your health. If you want to avoid poor health and the numerous diseases caused by a bad diet, you might want to steer clear of these 19 items when choosing your next snack-time treat.
Chips
Chips might be tasty, but many brands are extremely high in unhealthy fats and sodium. They also contain artificial flavors and preservatives and lack nutritional value. According to the BBC, chips are one of the most commonly eaten ultra-processed foods and account for 2% of calories in the average diet.
Donuts
Donuts are notoriously high in both trans fats and sugar and also contain several artificial additives and preservatives. These sugary snacks are extremely bad for your health and can lead to weight gain and heart disease if consumed in excess.
Candy Bars
Tucking into the occasional candy bar as a rare treat probably won’t harm you, but it’s important to remember that these snacks are extremely high in sugar and unhealthy fats, contain artificial flavorings and colors, and can cause spikes in blood sugar levels.
Sodas
Sodas tend to be loaded with high fructose corn syrup or sugar, which is seriously bad for your health. Drinking a lot of sodas can contribute to obesity and diabetes, as well as tooth decay. Mayo Clinic says that drinking just one soda a day adds up to 32 pounds of sugar each year, which is bad news for your teeth and weight.
Microwave Popcorn
Microwave popcorn contains trans fats and high levels of sodium and is often packaged with harmful chemicals such as diacetyl. This snack also provides minimal nutritional benefits compared to air-popped popcorn, which is a much better choice for your health.
Flavored Yogurt
Yogurt can be a great addition to your diet if you choose the right ones. Flavored yogurts are typically high in added sugars and artificial ingredients and much lower in protein compared to plain or Greek yogurt.
Instant Noodles
Instant noodles are convenient, but they don’t provide essential nutrients like vitamins and fiber, making them a waste of calories. They are usually high in sodium and unhealthy fats and contain artificial flavors and MSG, which isn’t great for your body.
Fruit Snacks
You’re better off opting for real fruit over fruit-based snacks, as while they’re marketed as healthy – this is misleading. Instead, they are high in sugar, contain artificial flavorings, and are low in fiber and real fruit content.
Energy Drinks
Harvard Health informs us that, while marketed to increase alertness and energy levels, energy drinks contain significant amounts of caffeine and sugar and can cause a whole host of health problems. These include blood pressure issues, obesity, type 2 diabetes, sleep disorders, and stomach irritation.
Store-Bought Muffins
Instead of buying muffins from a store, your body should bake them at home. Store-bought muffins are high in sugar and unhealthy fats, and the large portion sizes contribute to overeating, which can lead to weight gain over time.
Cheese Puffs
Cheese puffs are a well-loved snack, but they are also packed with unhealthy fats and sodium. They contain many artificial ingredients and are low in protein and fiber—essential nutrients your body needs to remain healthy.
Lunchables
When packing your child’s lunchbox for school, it might be best to avoid lunchables. This snack contains processed meats and cheeses, making it high in both sodium and saturated fats. Children’s health will benefit from eating fresh fruit and vegetables rather than highly processed foods.
Granola Bars
Although you might think that granola bars are a healthy snack option, this is generally not true. Store-bought granola bars are usually high in added sugars and unhealthy fats, contain artificial ingredients and preservatives, and are low in fiber and protein when compared to healthier options.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
Ice cream sandwiches are high in sugar and saturated fats, contain artificial flavors and preservatives, and lack essential nutrients. This can contribute to tooth decay, weight gain, obesity, diabetes, and more health problems.
Fried Mozzarella Sticks
You’ll find fried mozzarella sticks on many restaurant and fast-food menus, but it’s best to avoid them. They are high in unhealthy fats and calories, lack fiber and essential vitamins, and are often served with sugary sauces, which make them even worse for your body.
Processed Meat Sticks
Processed meat sticks, like those made by the brand Pepparami, are high in sodium and saturated fats and also contain preservatives. Verywell Health tells us how they are linked to increased risk of heart disease and cancer.
Packaged Smoothies
Many people think that smoothies are healthy, but to get the best health benefits, you should make them yourself with fresh fruit. Store-bought smoothies are high in added sugars and calories, lack real fruit, and contain artificial flavors.
Store-Bought Cookies
Baking your own cookies ensures that you can avoid the high amounts of sugar and unhealthy fats in store-bought cookies. They are low in nutrients and contain several additives. If you bake your own, you can adapt the ingredients and add fruit and nuts to boost the nutritional value.
Flavored Instant Oatmeal
Oatmeal can be a healthy breakfast choice, as long as it’s not flavored instant oatmeal. This version of oatmeal is high in added sugars and artificial flavors and lower in fiber compared to plain oatmeal. If you opt for plain oatmeal instead, why not try adding some healthy ingredients, such as fresh fruit, to boost the flavor and nutrition?