Don’t be fooled: So-called ‘healthy’ foods shouldn’t signal a free-for-all

Healthy foods are trendier than ever, and we love the fact that being healthy doesn’t mean restricting our food intake or embarking on a crash diet as our less-informed teenage selves may have once believed.

On the downside, however, a food which is labelled as “healthy” can often make you think you can go all out and enjoy it unlimitedly.

Unfortunately, that isn't the case.

To be clear, we are not saying you should stop eating the following foods, but instead reminding you to enjoy them mindfully.

Almond butter

Lord, do we love it. Almond butter – and nut butters in general – are considered a healthy food and they are an ideal snack when teamed with an apple or a banana.

But let’s not forget that one single tablespoon contains 100kcal. So spread it sparingly. 

Avocado

Full of vitamins, minerals and good fatty acids, avocados have countless benefits and we adore them.

But with 160 calories for 100 grams, it is a good idea to control your intake and stick to no more than ½ avocado a day.  

Smoothies and juices

Fruit juices and smoothies are a delicious nutrient-packed beverage, but don’t drink them like water.

They are usually full of sugars and if you add nut butter, avocado or Greek yoghurt, they become real calorie bombs. 

Energy balls

Made mostly of dried fruits and nuts, energy balls are a good source of natural sugars and good fats, but then again, all these benefits don’t come calorie-free.

First, try and make them yourself so you know exactly what is in them (it is SO MUCH cheaper) and don't nibble them all at once. 

Gluten-free food

Or more precisely, gluten-free processed food. It might not contain gluten, but it doesn’t mean it is healthy.

A gluten-free muffin is still a muffin, and isn’t any better for you than a normal muffin (unless you are coeliac, of course). 

 

Sushi

Fish, and especially oily fish, should be a part of your diet, and sushi is a tasty way to enjoy their benefits.

However, sushi rolls can turn into real calorie bombs if you go for cream-cheese or mayo-filled versions. Stick to something simple – one salmon-avocado roll – and order a side salad.  

Rice cakes

And more specifically, those covered in chocolate.

Those seemingly light treats are about 90kcal for one, so if you have the whole pack (which is quite easy in fairness) you can end up eating the equivalent of a burger without even feeling full. 

Hummus
Again, we know hummus is delicious, full of healthy proteins and fats, but with about 170kcal per 100 grams, it’s not a reason to down a whole tub in one go. 

Granola

Made mostly of oats, dried fruits, nuts and seeds, granola is a nutritious topping to add to yoghurt or porridge for a tasty breakfast, but it can be VERY high in calories.

So before you go crazy on it, check the sugar content and keep the portion small.

Healthy baking

It is not because it is dairy-free, butter-free or added-sugar-free that it is calorie free! Coconut oil, dates, maple syrup, peanut butter and almond flour might be a healthier alternative to butter, sugar and flour, they are still heavy in calories.

Also, a small slice of a real cake once in a while doesn’t make you unhealthy or weak, but just human. #noguilt