In the quest for better health, it’s easy to be swayed by clever marketing and food trends. However, some foods that wear a “health halo” may not be as nutritious as they seem. According to Jimmy Chill, a chef specializing in nutrient-driven menus, several popular everyday foods are often misunderstood, leading people to consume hidden sugars, processed ingredients, and excess calories without realizing it.
The first item on the list is the beloved açaí bowl. While the açaí berry itself is a antioxidant-rich superfood, the problem lies in the toppings. Chill explains that once you add granola, honey, and sweetened fruits, this healthy base transforms into a “sugar bomb” that can cause a rapid spike and subsequent crash in blood sugar levels. He recommends making your own bowls at home using 100% pure açaí to control the ingredients.
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Next are processed vegetarian products and veggie chips. “Plant-based does not always mean it’s healthy,” Chill warns. Many meat alternatives and colorful veggie chips are highly processed, made with lab-created ingredients and refined starches. The cooking process often strips away any original nutritional value, leaving behind a snack that offers little more than regular potato chips.
Finally, protein shakes and detox juices complete the list. Many ready-to-drink protein shakes contain artificial sweeteners and additives that can disrupt gut health, while store-bought smoothies and juices can be surprisingly high in calories and sugar. Chill notes that the body detoxes naturally on its own, making specialized “detox” juices largely unnecessary. The key takeaway is to look beyond the marketing and focus on whole, minimally processed foods for truly healthy eating.
