- Milk:
For decades, the dairy industry has been trying to sell unsuspecting families the idea that milk and other dairy products are good for you. In actuality, studies show that lactose is very harmful to the adult digestive system and is also a likely culprit of stomach pain, irregular bowel movements, and other intestinal issues. Further studies show that the human body absorbs very little calcium from milk and that most of the liquid is processed as waste. Nuts, vegetables, and fruits are a truly healthy alternative to getting essential nutrients such as calcium and protein without the needless indigestion.
- Energy Drinks
Energy drinks have also garnered the reputation of being a great way to replenish electrolytes, feel energized, and to rehydrate the body. However little do most people know, energy drinks are filled with harmful additives, food coloring, and processed sugar. These unhealthy ingredients are proven to cause diabetes, encourage obesity, heightened blood pressure, and the production of cancer cells. Studies have also linked frequent consumption of energy drinks to premature heart failure and stroke.
- Soy
Soy products are thought to be a healthy alternative to dairy, white grain, and even red meat. However, studies suggest that Soy can increase estrogen levels in women, leading to the growth of cancer-causing breast tissue. Scientists are still grappling with understanding soy’s full effect on the human body, considering other studies have found that Soy may reduce male-centric illnesses such as colorectal and prostate cancer. Still the indeterminate nature of the studies lead experts to believe that too much soy consumption can be costly to your health.
- Palm Oil
Health experts have speculated that Palm Oil can prevent cancer, brain disease, and help with vitamin A deficiency. Yet recent studies show that Palm Oil also has negative effects due to its high saturated-fat content. Without proper regulation, Palm Oil can increase cholesterol levels, cause weight gain, and clog major arteries. Palm Oil can be found in your favorite cheat-day snacks including bread spreads, yogurt, and even in presumed “healthy” snacks like crackers and low-calorie popcorn.
- Fruit Juice
As children, most of us are taught to believe that fruit juice is a healthy alternative to sodas, shakes, and other sugary drinks. However, studies have found that an overwhelming majority of the kid-friendly fruit juice brands –many of which advertise vitamin-rich benefits—are saturated with high-fructose corn syrup, dyes, and other substitutions for natural fruit flavor. When shopping for fruit-juice, make sure to rule out keywords like “made from concentrate,” and “made from real fruit,” as opposed to 100% fruit juice.
- Granola
Like fruit juice, Granola has managed to dupe people into believing that it provides a natural source of fiber and protein. In fact, most Granola—mainly processed as breakfast or energy bars—are smothered in sugar, fatty oils, and are especially high in calories. Similarly, many brand name cereals that pass as “healthy varieties” are actually very high is processed sugar and trans fat. A safe bet, is to shop for loose Granola from an organic brand or without sugary bits like chocolate or yogurt chunks to ensure its health value.
