Popular Health Foods That Are Actually Junk in Disguise

31. Yogurt & Granola Parfaits (Pre-Made): Layered with Sugar

These convenient grab-and-go options look wholesome with layers of yogurt, fruit, and granola. Unfortunately, store-bought or cafe versions typically use sweetened yogurt (often vanilla-flavored), sugary granola (as discussed earlier), and sometimes syrupy fruit compote instead of fresh fruit. This combination results in a high-sugar, high-calorie treat that's more like dessert than a healthy breakfast or snack. Assembling your own with plain yogurt, fresh fruit, and controlled granola portions is a much better choice.

32. Frozen Yogurt: The Dessert Disguised as Healthy

Frozen yogurt is often marketed as a lighter alternative to ice cream, but don’t let the “yogurt” label fool you. Many commercial fro-yo options are packed with added sugars and artificial stabilizers to enhance texture and shelf life. Without the beneficial probiotics found in refrigerated yogurt—and often served in massive portions with candy toppings—it can rival or exceed ice cream in sugar and calories. If you’re craving a cold treat, opt for a small portion of unsweetened Greek yogurt with fruit, or read labels carefully when choosing store-bought frozen options. Healthier doesn’t always mean healthy.