Healthy Living in Austin, Texas

I hereby authorize liberal use of air quotes when discussing these “healthy” foods—items that come plastered with health-related packaging claims but consistently fall short in the nutritional department. Here’s the unfortunate truth about 5 “healthy” products, plus suggestions for what to buy instead.

Twig & Flake Cereals

ust because a cereal is organic, made with whole grains, high in fiber, or studded with flax seeds doesn’t mean it’s automatically good for you. Organic sugar is still sugar—and a lot of organic cereals pack just as much of the sweet stuff as conventional brands. Don’t be fooled by high-fiber cereals, either: They’re frequently supplemented with added fiber (read: not as absorbable) to make up for the fact that they’re full of over-processed, refined grains.
What’s better: Look for cereals that have less than 6 grams of sugar per serving and short ingredients lists. Go for whole grains, freeze-dried fruits, and unprocessed nuts, not artificial sweeteners or added fibers.

Veggie Chips

Most packaged chips that claim to be chockful of vegetables are made mostly of potato starch or corn flour. Usually, the only “veggie” you’re getting is a weak tint of color from vegetable powders.
What’s better: Try making your own chips with real veggies with these 5 simple recipes. Or look for chips where kale, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are first on the ingredient list. These “chips” are easy to spot because they look more like veggies and less like potato chips.

Bottled Green Juices

While it’s nice to think you’re getting all the benefits of spinach in a green refrigerated drink, you’re likely getting more sugar than anything else. Some of these smoothie-like juices pack upwards of 50 grams of sugar per bottle, mostly from fruit. And although that’s a natural source, it will still hit your bloodstream like a bag of Skittles.
What’s better: Try a zero-calorie sparkling water and eat your veggies (or juice them at home) instead, like with these 10 amazing green juice recipes.

Pita Chips

Since they’re often baked rather than fried, pita chips have earned an undeserved health halo. No matter how they’re prepared, many are made with enriched wheat flour, a refined grain with next to nothing in fiber or the other nutrients found in whole-grain flour.
What’s better: They’re not easy to find, but you can get pita chips made with whole-grain flour. Or make your own with this super-simple, four-ingredient recipe.

Rice Cakes

Sure, rice cakes are low in fat and calories, but they’re also pretty low on nutrition. Most provide a single gram each of protein and fiber without almost any other micronutrients to speak of. Flavored versions are often rife with artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors.
What’s better: If you’re craving something crunchy, try a whole-grain cracker that has a little staying power.