Think they’re healthy? 20 everyday foods that could be behind unwanted weight gain
We think we're doing the right thing by putting them on the menu... but some foods that are often described as "healthy" aren't necessarily our best allies if we're trying to keep our figure. Don't panic: they're not "bad", but eaten without moderation, they can quickly add up the calories...
Zoom in on 20 of these false friends of balance!
1. Industrial granola
Crunchy and fragrant, it's got it all... except for its added sugar and fat content. Better to make it yourself.
2. Commercial smoothies
Underneath their vitamin-packed exterior, some contain as much sugar as soda. Nothing beats a homemade smoothie with fresh fruit and no added ingredients.
3. Peanut butter
Excellent for energy and protein, but high in calories: a teaspoon is enough, not the whole jar!
4. Cereal bars
Cereal bars save you from hunger, but many are packed with glucose syrup and hidden oils.
5. Dried fruit
Apricots, raisins, figs... concentrated in fiber and minerals, but also in sugar. Nibble in small handfuls.
6. Walnuts and almonds
Rich in healthy fats, but high in calories. Limit them to a small handful a day.
7. 0% fat cream cheese
Classic trap: you remove the fat but add... sugar to compensate for the taste. Check the label.
8. Wholemeal bread
More satiating than white bread, but it's still bread: eating too much of it can increase your calorie intake.
9. Avocados
We love them on toast, but they're still high in fat. Include them in your diet with balance.
10. Hummus
Chickpea-based, so healthy, yes... but sesame and olive oils make it very high in calories.
11. Goat's cheese
Often perceived as "lighter" than classic cheese, it's still high in fat and should be eaten in moderation.
12. Fruit juices
Even 100% pure juice, they concentrate the sugar of fruit without the fiber that satiates.
13. Sushi
Freshness guaranteed, but beware: between the vinegared (sweet) rice and the sauces, the calories add up fast.
14. Diet crackers
They look healthy, but are often made with refined flours and lots of salt.
15. Puffed rice cakes
They give the impression of being light, but their glycemic index is very high. Result: guaranteed cravings.
16. Quinoa
Excellent for replacing pasta, but high in carbohydrates. Consume as a starch, but not in excess.
17. Fruit yoghurt
Presented as balanced, but often loaded with added sugar. Better plain yoghurt with real pieces of fruit.
18. Prepared vegetarian dishes
Veggie burgers, falafels or "healthy" ready meals can contain a lot of oil or sauce.
19. Coconut oil
Very trendy, but full of saturated fats. Use occasionally, not every day.
20. Dark chocolate
Excellent for its antioxidants... but still high in calories. Two squares, yes. The whole bar, no!
In a nutshell
These 20 foods are not to be banned (phew!), but to be eaten consciously and, above all, in reasonable quantities. The key is to strike a balance: vary, indulge and remember that "healthy" food doesn't mean you can abuse it.
Adèle Peyches
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