Foods We May Think Are Healthy, But They Aren't

There are some foods we all know are healthy – like fresh, crisp apples – and others that we agree are unhealthy – like greasy burgers and fries. But there are some foods that are masquerading as health foods – even though they’re really not. Here are some of the trickiest culprits.

1. Turkey bacon

It may be turkey – but it’s still bacon, which means it’s highly processed and loaded with sodium. A better alternative for breakfast protein: scrambled eggs.

2. Fruit drinks

If it’s not 100 percent fruit juice, then it’s not juice. “Fruit drinks” often have just 10 percent juice – and the rest is sugar, or worse: high fructose corn syrup. A better alternative for a juicy refreshment: freshly squeezed orange juice.

3. Breakfast bars

These bars often boast real fruit and whole grains, but they’re also full of high fructose corn syrup and enriched flour. A better alternative for a quick breakfast: plain yogurt topped with berries.

4. Low-fat peanut butter

Peanut butter is an all-time favorite health food – but the low-fat version is also high in sugar. A better alternative for a smear of PB: all-natural peanut butter without added sugars or salt.

5. Salad dressing

You can turn your healthy chopped salad into a junk food just by topping your greens with bottled, creamy dressing. A better alternative for salad: extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar and a squeeze of lemon.

6. Canned soup

The label may boast a low-fat recipe, but the soup inside is very high in salt. One can of soup is often enough for a full day’s intake of sodium.A better alternative for hot lunch: homemade soup with flavorful herbs instead of added salt.

7. Iceberg lettuce

Not all salads are created equally. Get some green in your greens! Pass up on this barely green vegetable and choose darker leaves that are packed with significantly more nutrients and vitamins. A better alternative for fresh salads: spinach, arugula, kale, collards or chard.

8. Vitamin-enhanced waters

These candy-colored bottled beverages do have vitamins – but they also have high levels of sodium and calories. A better alternative for a refreshing boost: a daily multivitamin washed down with water.

                                                                                                           ~Thanks to Heather Butscher