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You may think that you are automatically making the healthier choice when shopping at Whole Foods for your weekly groceries, but the truth is that even if something is marked as “organic” or sold at Whole Foods, it’s not necessary your best bet–especially if you are trying to trim a few pounds from the waistline, or eat cleaner just because.
We spoke to NYC internist and gastroenterologist Dr. Niket Sonpal to discover the foods that you should never drop in your basket when shopping the store:
Whole Food’s Organic Chocolate Truffles
“Three of these truffles contain 180 calories and two teaspoons of sugar,” Dr. Sonpal, who is a faculty member of the Touro College of Medicine, explains. “Most men should only have 9 teaspoons of sugar a day, while women should get no more than 6 teaspoons of added sugar a day.” Yikes! So, what should you eat instead when that sweet tooth strikes? “To satisfy your sugar cravings, turn to berries or other fruits that are naturally sweet and healthy,” he explains.
365 Veggie Chips
Say it ain’t so! Our editors love these tasty snacks, but Dr. Sonpal warns that any perception of them being a healthier alternative to potato chips is just plain false.
“These chips are not much healthier than potato chips and don’t provide the same vitamins and minerals that veggies do,” he warns. “Although you do get approximately 40 chips for 130 calories, that comes with, 16 grams of carbs, and 7 grams of fat, don’t be fooled by the title ‘veggie chips,’ they don’t provide any nutritional value, and there is no comparison to eating real vegetables.” Shucks!
IZZE sparkling flavored drinks
Though these drinks are healthier than soda, alcohol or fruit juice, “Be careful because this beverage contains fructose, is caloric, and its ingredients are not all-natural,” Dr. Sonpal explains. “The label states that it includes a fruit juice blend, and also a ‘natural flavor.’ However, natural flavors usually indicate that something is processed in a lab. Although this drink isn’t harmful, don’t count on it to be a significant source of nutrition.”
365 Organic Ranch
This organic salad dressing is on the high end for sodium and calories. “The recommended amount of sodium is 2,300 mg per day; this product contains 330 mg of sodium. Four tablespoons of this ranch are equivalent to 25% of your maximum daily sodium quota. The ranch is also 120 calories for a two-tablespoon serving.”
