Tuesday, May 15, 2012

What you think might be healthier versions of junk foods really are not.

At first glance "junk health foods" might seem healthier than ordinary junk foods, because they use yogurt, have fruity fillings, reduced fat or natural sweeteners. But Consumer Reports ShopSmart magazine reports that's often misleading.

For example, Special K Chocolatey Delight cereal actually has more fat, more calories and more sodium than regular Cocoa Puffs. And Jif Reduced-Fat Creamy Peanut Butter has less fat than regular Jif, but the same calories, a lot more sodium and more sugar.

Jacqueline Marcus, a registered dietician and nutrition consultant who owns TheFitFoodPro.com, says a chip is a chip. She says product packaging may make you think the food inside is healthier when it's not. And "junk health foods" cost more, so you're also wasting money.

The best advice is to read the nutrition labels carefully so you know what you're really getting.