We all lead busy lives, and it can be hard to remember to eat healthily. Sometimes, it’s easier to just grab food off the shelf, thinking only of the convenience and not of the nutritional value. Processed foods are always on-hand, which is why they make so much money for manufacturers. And they’ve saved us time and energy in the past. But, at what cost?
1. Diet Cola
Est. Price: $1.19 per can*
Diet cola portrays itself as a healthy alternative to regular cola. After all, it’s sugar-free! And, it has no calories. It’s often been the go-to drink for dieters everywhere. Though Mayo Clinic says that it is okay if consumed in minimal quantities, people who drink more than a can a day could be headed for some serious harm.
According to Healthline, studies have shown that diet colas
aren’t so “diet’ after all. Artificial sweeteners can lead to chronic
kidney disease, tooth decay (because of the acidic pH level), and an
increased risk of osteoporosis, depression, and heart disease. More
studies are needed to be 100% sure, but you might want to cut back on
diet cola or avoid it totally
2. Hot Dogs
Est. Price: $2.50-$6 per 12-pack*
Hot dogs are highly processed foods that contain many ingredients other than animal meat. Among them is maltodextrin, which, if consumed in excess, can cause damage to the intestines and stomach.
Additionally, a serving of hot dogs has 33% of the recommended daily sodium intake. As if that were not enough, hot dogs usually list “poultry meat” among their ingredients, an ambiguous term that raises doubts about the true origin of the meat they contain. Considering this, it’s surprising just how many of these are sold at stores like Kroger each year.
3. Breakfast Sandwiches
Est. Price: $3-$5 per sandwich*
It might be tempting to quickly grab a breakfast sandwich from a fast-food restaurant like McDonald’s, Starbucks, Dunkin’ Donuts, and Tim Horton’s. And, there’s no denying that these sandwiches are delicious. However, you could be doing your body a real disservice by eating one every day.
Though once in a while isn’t a problem, breakfast sandwiches are high in cholesterol. According to The Nutrition Twins, eating a fast-food breakfast sandwich three times a week can make you gain eight pounds a year, thanks to the three-hundred extra calories from the sandwich that you wouldn’t otherwise get if you stuck to eating at home. It makes you think twice about that McDonald’s McMuffin, doesn’t it?
4. American Cheese Slices
Est. Price: $3.99 per jar*
Imitation cheese often has misleading packaging. These products, instead of being made with ingredients like milk fat the way normal cheese is, have vegetable oils, trans fats, flavorings, and preservatives.
All of these ingredients make imitation cheeses much less healthy than real cheeses. You can identify imitation cheeses among other things, because they are considerably less expensive than real cheese.
5. Commercial Salad Dressings
Est. Price: $2-$4 per bottle*
Vegetables are super healthy, but the problem is that a lot of them don’t exactly taste great on their own. You can make a super-deluxe salad, but it’ll be a little boring unless you add dressing. And that’s fine, but you might want to stay away from commercial salad dressings.
Many of them are loaded with vegetable oils, sugar, and trans fats, all of which are unhealthy. They also tend to contain artificial chemicals. These unhealthy ingredients take away from the benefits of the salad. Instead, try making your own salad dressing from olive oil, vinegar, and a dash of salt and pepper. Next time you’re shopping at Costco , take a harder look at the label.
6. Pre-Packaged Cupcakes
Est. Price: $2.99 per box*
Pre-packaged cupcakes are a delicious dessert, but their nutritional content will leave you with a very bad taste in your mouth. Sadly, most of these packs contain almost three times the recommended daily value of sugar.
Another ingredient is high fructose corn syrup, which can contribute to the development of high blood pressure or metabolic syndrome. Excessive consumption of this product can also cause obesity, diabetes, and fatty liver, among other gnarly diseases. Like anything else, these should be eaten in moderation.
7. Gummy Bears
Est. Price: $4.99 per pound*
Each bag of Gummy Bears contains just 0.2 pounds of gummies. However, this small amount hides the equivalent of 12 teaspoons of sugar. This is between two and three times the recommended daily intake for a child.
In addition to the risks that come with excessive sugar intake, Gummy Bears also contain artificial ingredients such as petroleum-based dyes, which can contribute to the development of problems like attention deficit or hyperactivity. A pack of Haribo from Walmart might only cost you a couple of bucks, but is it worth it?
8. Instant Ramen
Est. Price: $0.13 per packet*Maruchan Soup is a very popular meal for its affordable price, at just thirteen cents a packet. It’s also super-easy it is to prepare. However, due to its low fiber content, a serving of this soup is hardly going to satisfy you.
In addition, Maruchan Soup is very high in sodium: each container provides half the recommended daily value. Consuming this product frequently can cause problems such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, among other ailments.
9. Cheap Bread
Est. Price: $0.88 per loaf*
Cheap white bread is essential for making practical lunches to take to school and the office. It won’t break the bank, costing less than $1 per loaf. But one of the reasons why this product is consumed so frequently is that it can become addictive.
This is because it contains sugar, which helps in the fermentation process of bread. In addition, a lot of brands use a high amount of fat and salt that, in excess, can harm your health. Also, most of these loaves of bread do not have much fiber, so it will hardly make you full.
10. Pancakes
Est. Price: $2-$4 per box*
Although they are one of the favorite breakfasts of children and adults, pancakes are not particularly healthy. For starters, they tend to have high amounts of salt and preservatives that should be avoided in a balanced diet.
In addition, they usually contain trans fats, which increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Some of them also have partially hydrogenated soybean oil, which is not one of the healthiest fats out there. But, let’s face it, did any of us really think eating at iHop every day was good for our health?
11. Coconut Water
Est. Price: $20 per 12-pack*
Sure, there are a lot of benefits to coconut water. It has electrolytes, and it is very hydrating. However, be careful of coconut water if you’re trying to count your calories. Like many sports drinks, coconut water has 45-60 calories per eight-ounce serving.
If it’s flavored, it might also be high in sugar. There is a third concern with coconut water, and that’s that it can cause your potassium levels to become too high. But, that’s only if you drink it in large amounts. Over-consumption of this beverage can also lead to stomach upset, so just watch how much you’re drinking or you might end up reaching for the Imodium.
12. Chewing Gum
Est. Price: $1-$3 per pack*
Many brands of chewing gum promote themselves by showing off their supposed benefits. Some promise fresh breath and even whiter, cleaner teeth. However, there are several oral problems that are associated with the consumption of this product.
Some gum can cause problems such as stomach pain, diarrhea, and jaw pain, especially if the gum has a high sugar content. Apart from that, there have also been reports of children who have suffered asphyxiation after misusing gum. Think carefully before you pick up a pack at Target’s checkout.
13. Chocolate-Covered Rice Cereal
Est. Price: $3.98 per box*
Chocolate-covered rice cereals are often advertised as a great option for the little ones to have breakfast. What is not advertised, of course, is that they are one of the most harmful cereals on the market.
A single serving of this cereal provides between 55 and 73% of the total sugar recommended for children in a day. In addition, many of these types also have colorants associated with the development of hyperactivity and attention deficit disorders.
14. Kids’ Yogurt Cups
Est. Price: $1.25 per cup*
Many brands promise to help children grow up healthy and strong, but the truth is very different. Yogurt cups aimed at kids are largely made up of sugar, fat, and artificial colorants, excessive consumption of which can lead to various health risks.
Among these risks are diabetes, metabolic and heart problems, and obesity. As if that were not enough, the excess fat that some of these products contain can become carcinogenic. So, although there may be plenty of calcium in them, it’s worth weighing up the risks!
15. Hot Sauce
Est. Price: $1-$3 per bottle*
There is no doubt that hot sauce is one of the most popular condiments out there. Due to its versatile flavor, it can be used in a myriad of dishes, from simple snacks to more elaborate meals. There isn’t a single meal that can’t be made more exciting via the addition of hot sauce.
But although the hotness of this sauce is the entire appeal, it can also damage our stomach lining and cause gastritis. The most sensible thing to do is to consume this product in moderation and take into account the negative effects it can have on our health – even if it can be bought at a bargain price on Amazon!
16. Coffee
Est. Price: $2.99 per cup*
Coffee is undoubtedly one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world. People love to drink it, and many can’t imagine starting their morning without a hot (or iced) cup. But while it can give you the energy to start the day, its excessive consumption can also damage your health.
Too much coffee consumption can cause problems such as sleep disorders or headaches. This drink can also easily worsen anxiety problems, and in the long term, it can even lead to cardiovascular issues. Starbucks makes hundreds of millions a year though, because coffee is also addictive.
17. Meat
Est. Price: $4-$10 per pound*
You have probably heard that meat is part of a healthy, balanced diet. However, excessive consumption of this meat is also a health risk. A lot of meat on the market today contains pesticides that are consumed by the animals, which remain in their bodies for us to consume.
Most red meat also contains hormones and antibiotics that are given to the animals to accelerate their growth. The factory farming process often uses hormones like testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone on its cattle, which then trickles down to humans, causing problems. Fish, aren’t any better, as they can contain heavy metals such as mercury. But still, that doesn’t stop companies like Tyson Foods making billions.
18. Flavored Popcorn
Est. Price: $3-$5 per bag*
Natural popcorn can be a tasty and healthy snack, as it’s low in calories. Sadly, the ones that are sold ready-made in the supermarket are almost the opposite, especially since they have artificial flavorings. For example, caramel popcorn can be incredibly high in sugar and fat.
A bag, even a small one, of caramel popcorn can contain 12.8 tablespoons of sugar and up to 564 calories. There is no doubt that preparing this snack at home and keeping it unflavored is a much better option than buying it. Disney movies are just as good, no matter the snack!
19. Honey
Est. Price: $4+*
Honey is a great, natural food product that has many benefits to it.
It’s high in antioxidants, can help a sore throat, and even heal cuts.
While honey really is a superfood, it still has an incredibly high sugar content which means it should be consumed in moderation.
Cardiologists warn against consuming too much sugar as it can lead to heart disease and all sorts of nasty ailments that aren’t easily fixed. In fact, many experts think sugar is the biggest food demon out there, so you may want to think twice before adding that extra spoonful of nectar to your camomile tea.
20. Peanut Butter
Est. Price: $2-$5 per jar*
Peanut butter is high in calories and protein, and it is a common snack for people who are trying to avoid a lot of carbs. The fat in peanut butter is mostly healthy, though note that peanuts do have some saturated fat. Saturated fat can lead to heart issues when it is consumed over a long period of time.
Essentially, peanut butter is healthy, but you need to consume it in moderation (like anything, really). Binge-eating peanut butter daily can easily lead to weight gain and high cholesterol. Too much of a good thing, as they say, is a bad thing.
21. Spray Cheese
Est. Price: $3.93 per can*
This one can’t possibly be unexpected, as any type of cheese that you can spray out of a can probably isn’t going to be that healthy for you. Also known as “Easy Cheese” and “Cheez Whiz,” spray cheese is basically whipped cheese. Though it doesn’t need a skull and crossbones on the label, it’s not exactly good for you.
Spray cheese has more chemicals and processed ingredients than regular cheese. It’s also loaded with salt, containing twice the normal amount that regular cheese has. As The Daily Meal put it, the chemicals in spray cheese should not be eaten “by any living person.” Even if you usually buy this in bulk from Costco, it might be time to rethink.
22. Artificial Orange Juice
Est. Price: $3-$5 per liter*
Artificial orange juice drinks might be delicious, but you should consider giving them up. They typically have tons of sugar, coloring agents, artificial sweeteners, and more, and there is almost no nutritional value. These drinks are worse for you than orange juice (which is super sugary and should also be consumed in moderation).
There was even an instance where a child drank too much of one particular brand and turned yellow, according to a Welsh pediatrician. The child drank 1.5 liters a day, and it turned his skin a different shade. Though that’s an excessive quantity, drinking that much water certainly wouldn’t have that effect.
23. Tube Yogurts
Est. Price: $6.58 per box*
Yogurts in squeezy packaging is a quick, cheap snack that has made an appearance in many kids’ lunchboxes. Yogurt in a tube is fast and easy to eat, and it’s true that kids love it. Though some of these brands do contain Vitamin D3, Vitamin A, and calcium, most have less than ten percent of the recommended daily dose of these nutrients.
Fructose and sugar levels can also be high. According to Healthline, this
can cause inflammation, which is associated with heart disease,
diabetes, obesity, and a wide range of other ailments. Perhaps
worryingly, these products always fly off the shelves at grocery stores.
24. Sandwich Cookies
Est. Price: $3.19 per box*
For a long time, this style of cookie has been one of the best sellers in the market worldwide. However, in addition to their high sugar levels, this product can contain another ingredient that can be harmful to health: diacetylene.
Diacetylene is a chemical used to flavor certain brands that make sandwich cookies. Surprisingly, it can also cause long-term respiratory problems if consumed in excess. The sugar and fat content makes them addictive, so it’s impossible to eat just one. Next time you’re buying, be sure to check the back of the packet.
25. Iced Tea
Est. Price: $3-$4 per container*Iced tea is a deceptive beverage because it appears to be light, healthy, and naturally derived. But don’t be fooled: this product is much closer to harmful soft drinks than a tea that you could steep at home with a teabag.
Each bottle of iced tea has a staggering fifteen tablespoons of sugar. Consuming this amount of glucose in one sitting can cause insulin spikes in your blood, which can increase your risk of diabetes.
26. Corn Syrup
Est. Price: $1-$3 per bottle*
You can buy corn syrup at the store, and some recipes do call for it. For example, if you’re making baked goods, frostings, jams, jellies, and other sweet treats, you might be asked to splash in this popular sweetener.
Be wary of using corn syrup. Compared to regular sugar, corn syrup is sweeter and cheaper. Those benefits are outweighed by the toxicity of it, and eating too much corn syrup (which isn’t difficult, as it’s addictively good and even small amounts are terrible for you) can cause insulin resistance, high blood pressure, obesity, Type II diabetes, and more. It’s also very cheap, coming in at less than $3 at stores.
27. Regular Cola
Est. Price: $1.19 per can*
Much has been said about how harmful cola can be to our health. Even Diet cola is bad for you. But do you know exactly why? Each can of regular cola contains around 7.4 tablespoons of sugar, which represents more than 100% of the recommended daily value.
This soda also has ingredients that can be harmful to bones, such as phosphoric acid. Finally, the dye used in its preparation contains ammonium and sulfides, which have cancer-related risks attached to them. As much as we love cola, this information leaves a sour taste.
28. Strawberries
Est. Price: $2.29 per pound*
While strawberries can be a great addition to a healthy diet, one must be very careful when consuming them, due to factors that occur during their cultivation. These delicious fruits can contain up to 20 different types of pesticides.
As strawberries are eaten with their skin, it is essential to clean them very well before eating them, to avoid consuming the chemicals that are used in their cultivation. Running them through water may not be enough, so a better option is to disinfect them with fruit sprays.
29. Pork Rinds
Est. Price: $4-$6 per bag*
Technically, pork rinds are keto-friendly. While it’s true that this crispy fried snack has no carbs, that doesn’t make it on par with spinach and broccoli. Pork rinds are high in saturated fat, sodium, and calories, which means that you shouldn’t dive into a huge bag of them every day.
Eating too many pork rinds can cause high blood pressure and weight gain, which can increase your risk of contracting diabetes and heart disease. Pork rinds are high in protein (9 grams per serving), but they’re not a “healthy snack” the way that pork rind manufacturers often try to portray them.
30. Caramel Popcorn
Est. Price: $3-$5 per bag*
Caramel Popcorn is a very tasty snack, but it is also unhealthy. This product is high in practically everything that should be consumed in moderation: calories, sugars, fats, and sodium, so if you’re not consuming only a small serving of this sugary snack, you could run into trouble.
Worst of all, due to its high sugar content, this snack can be very addictive. Sugar affects our brain in the same way that addictive drugs like cocaine do. Anyone can easily overeat treats like caramel popcorn and still want to keep eating because their brain can’t tell that they’re full.
31. Tomatoes
Est. Price: $1.89 per pound*
Tomatoes can contain many pesticides, and their skin is so thin that sometimes washing and peeling them may not be enough to get rid of the chemicals. So if you have a choice, it is always better to buy organic tomatoes.
But pesticides are not the only problem. Tomatoes can be harmful to people who have digestive system problems, as they contain large amounts of organic acids. If you’re prone to heartburn, you probably can’t eat these fruits.
32. Refried Beans
Est. Price: $1-$3 per can*
Homemade beans can be a very healthy food, as they have a lot of fiber and protein, which are good for the body. However, its processed version, despite being practical and versatile, is not so healthy.
Processed refried beans are high in sodium and saturated fat. This can lead to problems such as hypertension, obesity, high cholesterol, and more. There are tentative studies that have shown that a diet high in these bad ingredients can also heighten your cancer risk.
33. Potato Chips
Est. Price: $2-$5 per bag*
The vast majority of potato chips have petroleum-based colorings, starches, preservatives, and saturated fat. In addition, a serving of just 0.11 pounds of potato chips provides 32% of the recommended daily value for sodium.
To make matters worse, French fries, which are a close cousin to everyone’s favorite snack food, also contain monosodium glutamate, a compound that enhances flavor but will leave you wanting to eat more and more. There’s a reason you can’t eat just one.
34. Sunflower Seeds
Est. Price: $1-$3 per bag*
Sunflower seeds have often been billed as a healthy snack food, but even consuming healthy snack foods can lead to a high caloric intake. Weight gain can result from eating too many calories. Additionally, sunflower seeds can be high in sodium, leading to an excessive intake of salt if you eat too many.
In 2017, according to Science Daily, there was another concerning revelation about these seeds. Researchers found that sunflower seeds were traceable as a source of “toxic mold,” and were “contaminated” with mold-produced toxins. These toxins can act as a potent liver carcinogen, and sunflower seed consumption, if the seeds have these toxic substances, poses an “increased health risk.”
35. Tortillas
Est. Price: $4-$6 per bag*
Though fine if eaten in moderation, tortillas, like most carbohydrate-based foods, aren’t good for you if you eat them in high quantities. Flour tortillas are popular all over the world, but they’re not the healthiest choice out there. They often have a high caloric content.
The flour used in the tortillas is usually mass-produced, and, therefore, full of preservatives and additives. Though these chemicals keep the tortillas fresh for longer, they wreak havoc on our bodies. Thirdly, flour tortillas often have a lot of sodium. Bottom line, stick to corn tortillas (or homemade) if you’re looking for a healthier tortilla option. Ingredients won’t cost you that much if you shop at somewhere like Target.
36. Fruit Flavored Cereal
Est. Price: $3.64 per box*
Fruit-flavored cereals are particularly attractive to children because of their bright colors and sugary taste. Sadly, they are not very healthy. Despite the box claiming that the cereal has a natural fruit flavor, fruit is not even among the ingredients.
In addition, the high amount of sugar in this cereal can lead children (and adults) to develop obesity, diabetes, or high blood pressure. This type of cereal is definitely not the best option for breakfast; try something high in protein and fiber instead.
37. Canned Tuna
Est. Price: $1.50 per can*
You may have heard that tuna is one of the favorite foods of nutritionists in weight loss diets. This is because it is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, and, as we all know, a high-protein, low-carb diet is usually a powerhouse for weight loss.
But, before making it part of your daily diet, you should consider that canned tuna may contain mercury. This, even in small amounts, is highly toxic and can lead to problems for your nervous, immune, and digestive systems.
38. Chocolate Milk
Est. Price: $3.69 per gallon*
It’s true that chocolate milk, a favorite of kids and adults everywhere, is delicious and has calcium, Vitamin D, and protein in it. Drinking a small amount every so often won’t hurt you, but, if you consume a high amount of this high-sugar beverage, you can increase your risk of weight gain and certain chronic diseases.
Chocolate milk contains almost as much sugar as a cup of soda. One cup has twenty-five grams of sugar and quite a few calories. Considering that one-third of U.S. children are overweight or obese, it’s something you should skip when it comes to your kids’ (and your) drink choice.
39. Artificially Flavored Creamer
Est. Price: $2-$4 per container*
A cup of coffee in the morning can be just what a lot of us need to get going. And, since the majority of people prefer not to drink their coffee bitter, creamer is often added. There are a ton of artificially-flavored coffee creamers out there, from regular vanilla to even “White Chocolate Raspberry” (International Delight).
Though a dash doesn’t hurt, if you’re one of those people who likes to dilute your coffee to milky tan, think twice. These creamers have a high sugar content, and the artificial flavorings used could be linked to abdominal pain, food hypersensitivity, and more, depending on the flavoring the company chose.
40. Granola Bars
Est. Price: $3-$6 per box*
Granola bars overexploit their reputation for being healthy. They’re considered a healthy snack, and almost all granola bar advertisements have some sort of nature-related or exercise-themed scene to promote the product. The truth is that many of these granola bars may have ingredients that, far from keeping you in shape, could cause problems for your health.
This product can be very high in refined sugars, and on top of that, it rarely includes significant amounts of fruit. Granola bars are one of those foods that, the fewer ingredients they contain, the more likely they are to be healthy.
41. Sparkling Mineral Water
Est. Price: $2.19 per liter*
PFAS chemicals, also known as “per- and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals,” are man-made and used in just about everything from stain-resistant fabrics to food packaging. PFAS chemicals have been around since the 1940s, and, though not regulated federally, they have been liked to health issues like thyroid disruption, cancer, and low birth weight, according to the EPA.
Some sparkling mineral water brands were tested and found to have measurable amounts of these PFAS chemicals. The reason behind the presence of these chemicals could be due to high PFAS levels in the source water or the carbonation process.
42. Creme Eggs
Est. Price: $3.98 per 5-pack*
Every spring, there are two groups of people: those who like Cadbury Crème Eggs, and those who don’t. In America, these crème-filled chocolate eggs are made by Hershey, and, though they’re a sweet treat for the spring holidays, avoid eating more than just one or two.
We all know that these decadent treats are delicious, but in Cadbury’s website, it says that every egg has 26.5 grams of sugar. Considering that you shouldn’t consume more than 30 grams of sugar a day, you’re using up your entire daily value on this one egg. It could be worth it, but moderation is key, here!
43. Frozen Vegetables
We’d never not want to encourage someone to eat vegetables, so, if frozen vegetables are your thing, don’t throw them out. Just note that you might have to eat more if you want to get all the nutrients that non-frozen veggies have. Freezing does help retain some of the nutritional content of frozen vegetables and fruit.
But, if the produce has been frozen for over a year, the nutrients begin to break down. Vitamins and minerals are lost during the blanching process as well. In fact, the greatest nutritional loss occurs during that time. So, if you have frozen vegetables, don’t be afraid to eat a lot and eat them right away.
44. Margarine
Est. Price: $2-$4 per case*
Margarine began as a cheaper substitute for traditional butter. Interestingly, it contains only a trace amount of cow’s milk, and some brands have even completely eliminated any animal-based ingredients from their recipe.
Instead of the fat from cow’s milk, margarine is made from different vegetable oils. This leads to an alarming amount of trans fat, which can lead to a number of serious conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
45. Donuts
Est. Price: $1-$3 per donut*
Donuts are one of the most popular treats out there. These sweet treats offer an infinity of options for any taste. They’re filled with different flavors and decorated with all kinds of sprinkles and frostings.
But the problem with donuts is not only that they tend to have a lot of sugar, but also that they are fried. Because they’re fried, they contain trans fats. Sorry police officers, but donuts should definitely not be part of your daily diet.
46. Hot Corn Chips
Est. Price: $2.79*
As popular as these spicy snacks are, their nutritional value leaves a lot to be desired, and it also gives you a lot to worry about. These snacks are high in sodium, calories, saturated fat, and trans fat, all of which can have some nasty effects on your health.
This means that these spicy chips can contribute to high blood pressure and the development of cardiovascular diseases. As if that were not enough, these hot chips also contain red dye, which has been associated with the appearance of tumors.
47. Fried Chicken
Est. Price: $14.99 per 8-piece* (KFC)
Where to begin when it comes to fried chicken? The simple fact that it is fried in oil immediately makes it something to be eaten in moderation. In addition to being fried, this delicacy is also made with a lot of flour.
Fried chicken is also usually quite high in calories, which can lead to problems like being overweight and having diabetes and heart disease. So if you want to eat chicken, it may be a better option to grill it.
48. Prepackaged Hamburgers
Est. Price: $5-$10 per bag*
Burgers that come prepackaged or pre-packaged are usually cheaper, which is why people like them. However, because they are prepackaged, they are made with meat of questionable origin, which allows companies to save on production costs.
In fact, many packages indicate that the content of hamburgers is “meat” only up to a certain percentage. The rest can be a variety of things, from soy to animal hides. This last part, of course, is not usually said on the labels.
49. Frosting
Est. Price: $1-$3 per canister*
As Nutrition Action put it, frosting is definitely on the list of “what not to eat.” Looking at the ingredients of frosting, it’s pretty clear why this food is a no-no. Though you might think that it’s just a small amount on a cake or cupcake, even that small amount has a ton of sugar.
Let’s look at the nutrition label of a very popular canned frosting, Betty Crocker Vanilla Rich & Creamy Frosting. One serving is two tablespoons, and just in those two tablespoons, there are 140 calories, 2.5 grams of saturated fat, and a whopping 19 grams of sugar. Not to mention, you’re adding that onto the sugar content of the piece of cake itself.
50. Pre-Cut Watermelon
Est. Price: $3-$6 per container*
It was previously thought that watermelon could cause diseases such as yellow fever or typhus. Although this is not a proven fact, it is true that there are conditions related to its consumption. Mainly, these conditions occur when watermelon is bought already cut in the supermarket.
The problem with consuming previously cut watermelon is that the fruit could be contaminated with bacteria that can end up causing salmonellosis. In 2019, according to WebMD, there was an outbreak of salmonella illness tied to pre-cut watermelon. Without a doubt, the safest option is to buy the whole fruit and cut it yourself at home.
51. Potatoes
Est. Price: $1.50-$2.50 per pound*
Like other vegetables, potatoes can be contaminated with pesticides that are dangerous for human consumption. But this is not the only danger associated with these tubers. You may have noticed that when potatoes are old they start to turn green.
This means that they have generated a large number of glycoalkaloids, which can cause moderate to severe food poisoning. If a potato has turned green, it is best not to eat it. Another rule of thumb is that if the potatoes taste bitter, do not eat them.
52. Alkaline Water
Est. Price: $1.99 per gallon*
Natural alkaline water is formed when water passes over rocks, and it has a higher pH level than tap water. Alkaline water promises to be better for your body than plain water, and it even claims to help conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
However, if you have any chronic disease or kidney or liver disease, it is recommended that you consult your doctor before starting to drink alkaline water, as it can increase sodium levels in your body.
53. Agave
Est. Price: $5-$10 per bottle*
Agave nectar is often touted as a healthy alternative to sugar or other syrups made with refined sugar. But, how true is that? The truth is that agave nectar has the same sugar content as many other sweeteners. In some cases, it might have even more.
A tablespoon of refined sugar has 40 calories, while the same amount of agave nectar has 60. In addition to that, agave is very high in fructose, which facilitates the accumulation of fat in the liver and increases bad cholesterol.
54. Sausages
Est. Price: $3-$6 per 4- or 6-pack*
Sausages are very versatile and can be eaten and cooked in a wide variety of presentations. However, they are not a great option if you want to eat a healthy diet. Their main problem is their large amount of saturated fat.
As if that were not enough, all sausages have alarming amounts of sodium and nitrates, which are carcinogenic. If consumed in excess, this product can contribute to the development of obesity and even cause heart attacks and strokes.
55. Onions
Est. Price: $1.25 per pound*
It’s true that onions have their benefits. According to Healthline, onions have sulfuric compounds and antioxidants, and early studies show that they’ve been linked to reduced cancer risk, lower blood sugar levels, and bone health improvements.
So, what’s the problem? Onions aren’t good for everyone. They’re very acidic, which means that if you have conditions like heartburn or gout, you’ll want to avoid onions or risk being in some serious pain. Other conditions that make onions unadvisable include colitis, acid reflux ulcers, intestinal inflammation, and rosacea. Healthline said that onion sensitivity or intolerance is a pretty “common occurrence.”
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56. Hamburgers
Est. Price: $1-$5 per burger*
Burgers are probably the most popular fast food out there. And much has been said regarding their contribution to weight gain. However, the health dangers that come with eating burgers go far beyond the extra pounds.
Hamburgers at fast-food restaurants are made with large amounts of saturated fat, sugar, and sodium. This can end up affecting your circulatory, nervous, and digestive systems. In addition, the ingredients used in its preparation add many calories but provide very few nutrients.
57. Tortilla Chips
Est. Price: $3.98 per bag*
Tortilla chips can be used in a myriad of ways. Perhaps the most popular is to prepare them as nachos, with beans, or with guacamole. The bad news is that, despite their versatility and delicious flavor, they are not the healthiest snacks out there.
All the chips are made from fried corn dough, which makes them instantly high in calories, cholesterol, and sodium. For that reason, it is not highly recommended that people with hypertension, obesity or heart problems consume them frequently.
58. Mole Sauce
Est. Price: $8-$10 per jar*
Mole sauce is a dish from Mexico, and you can find it at many Mexican parties and celebrations. This sauce, which has become popular in the U.S. as well, is commonly made from chili peppers, spices, butter, dark chocolate, almonds, and thickeners like corn dough, bread, or tortilla, depending on the recipe that is followed. Sadly, it is not a dish that you would easily find on a healthy menu.
Due to the chilies used to prepare it, the mole can irritate the stomach and cause discomfort. In addition, the fact that it is usually eaten with rice, tortillas, and meat considerably increases the number of calories it provides.
59. Milk
Est. Price: $3.71 per gallon*
If you think about it carefully, there are some puzzling things about drinking milk. First of all, humans are the only species that consume milk even when we have finished growing. Besides that, we are also the only ones that feed on the milk of animals of another species.
As if that were not enough, some of the hormones that can be found in this drink have been associated with the development of breast and prostate cancer. Of course, milk is undoubtedly high in protein and calcium, which benefits the bones. Just be careful to make sure the milk you drink is organic.
60. Energy Drinks
Est. Price: $2-$4 per can*
There are people who rely on energy drinks to get them through the day. If you are one of these energy drink aficionados, perhaps you should reconsider the habit, since these products do more harm than good to your body. Energy drinks often contain caffeine, taurine, and sugars.
All of these ingredients are stimulants, which can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, or diarrhea. If they are consumed in excess, the situation gets even worse, since they can cause alterations in the heart rate and blood pressure. It’s not unheard of for energy drinks to worsen anxiety; you can even become addicted to these drinks, according to Addiction Helper.
61. Dried Fruit
Est. Price: $5-$15 per bag*
Dried fruit can be misleading. It is true that it has nutrients similar to those of fresh fruit. But, the dehydration process can kill some of these nutritional benefits. Vitamin C, for example, is very sensitive to heat and oxidation and therefore is often lost during dehydration.
On top of that, dehydration reduces the weight and size of fruits, which is why it’s easy to overeat if you’re careless. Dried fruit can be a great snack, but you should be informed about its nutritional value, and check the label for added sugars. Even “unsweetened” bags of dried fruit can still have a lot of sugar.
62. Raw Cashews
Est. Price: $12.99 per pound*
Raw cashews, also known as tree nuts, are usually sold roasted in stores. And for a very important reason: when raw, they contain a very toxic resin called urushiol. Among the discomforts that this substance can cause is urushiol dermatitis, which can cause symptoms such as inflammation and suppuration.
This dermatological problem can be quite severe. On top of that, eating raw cashews in large quantities can even have lethal consequences. But don’t worry: most of the cashews you can find in any store have been roasted and can be safely consumed. If you do stumble upon raw cashews, avoid them.
63. Roasted Peanuts
Est. Price: $4.99 per pound*
Both roasted and raw nuts have a lot of benefits, and they’re similar, as far as calories, carbs, protein, and carbs go. Roasted peanuts are often preferable to regular peanuts, as they have more flavor to them.
Roasting nuts might add flavor, but the process can damage the healthy fat in nuts, which reduces their nutritional value. In fact, roasting the nuts can even lead to the formation of acrylamide, a harmful substance that forms during high-temperature cooking. According to Science Daily, acrylamide can cause nerve damage, impaired muscle coordination, and muscle weakness, if you’re exposed to the chemical in large doses.
64. White Wine
Est. Price: $10-$15 per bottle*
White wine can be an ideal date drink or a great reward after a long day at work. But, consuming it daily is definitely not ideal. First of all, because drinking wine could become an addiction and increase your tolerance to alcohol, causing you to need more and more to feel satisfied.
That’s not all. White wine can also increase your blood pressure, and if consumed on a daily basis, it could also cause cirrhosis and even negatively affect your fertility. Plus, each cup has roughly 200 calories that might be better served in a healthier drink.
65. Pears
Est. Price: $0.61 per pear*
Pears are very healthy fruits. However, due to the way they are grown, they can be full of pesticides that are very harmful to the human body. One of these pesticides, known as EDC, can cause sleep disorders, affect appetite, and even negatively influence reproductive processes.
Sadly, the pear is one of the 12 most pesticide-contaminated fruits, according to a list compiled by the US Environmental Working Group. So, if this juicy fruit is one of your favorites, don’t forget to wash and disinfect them before eating them.
66. White Pasta
Est. Price: $1-$3 per box*
Simple carbs are also known as “white carbs.” These carbs have been refined during processing, stripping away the germ and bran. You can find these carbs in white pasta, white rice, and white bread. These carbs are not good for you, and they can cause an increase in weight because of the way your body breaks the carbs down.
When you consume white pasta, your body breaks the carbs quickly down into glucose. This causes your blood sugar to spike, leaving you feeling hungrier later on and making you more likely to overeat in the long run. White pasta lacks nutrients, so, in the grocery aisle, it’s best to stick to whole wheat noodles.
67. Parmesan Cheese
Est. Price: $11 per pound*
Parmesan cheese is an Italian food favorite that has been adopted around the world. Although Parmesan is a great additive to pasta, lasagna, and salads, it is recommended that you consume it in moderation, as it is very high in sodium.
In addition, due to its delicious taste and versatility, it is very easy to overindulge in this product and end up eating extra calories, which, if done frequently, can lead to being overweight or obese. People don’t realize that they’re eating too much because they just view it as a sprinkled topping. Stick to the recommended serving size of one-quarter cup or less.
68. Salt
Est. Price: $0.40 per 26 oz. container*
You’ve probably heard that, in order to have a healthy diet, you need to avoid sodium. But do you know exactly why? There are many reasons, but the first is that eating too much salt will cause you to retain fluids, which puts more pressure on your heart and blood vessels.
Salt raises blood pressure, which can lead to severe problems like heart attacks, strokes, and heart and kidney failure. In addition, salt is dangerous because it generates a craving response in our body, which makes it highly addictive.
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