Avoid These “Healthy” Foods That Are Sabotaging Your Weight Loss Goals
Trying to lose weight this summer? You’re not alone, but your grocery list might be working against you. While fresh produce and lean proteins are great choices, many packaged foods marketed as “healthy” or “weight-loss-friendly” are full of hidden sugars, empty calories, and processed ingredients. Fitness expert Michael Smoak, known for his TikTok account @higherupwellness, warns that these so-called health foods could be stalling your progress. If you’re serious about losing weight, it’s time to rethink your choices. Here are the foods Smoak says you should avoid at all costs:
1. Bolthouse Farms Protein Plus Shakes
Smoak calls out Bolthouse Farms Protein Plus shakes for their misleading “healthy” label. While it’s true they contain protein, they also have 49 grams of sugar and 400 calories per serving. “You could eat a whole-food meal for 400 calories,” Smoak says. Don’t be fooled by the marketing—swap this for a whole meal or a simple protein shake to keep your weight loss on track.
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2. Power Up Premium Trail Mix
Even though Power Up Premium Trail Mix promises “high energy,” it’s not the best choice for weight loss. Smoak points out that trail mix is calorie-dense, meaning a small serving packs in a lot of calories. “If fat loss is your goal, put the trail mix back,” he urges. It’s easy to overeat, so it’s better to reach for a lower-calorie snack.
3. Yoplait Low-Fat Yogurt
Yoplait’s Original Yogurt markets itself as “low fat” and a “good source of calcium.” However, it only offers 5 grams of protein and 20 grams of sugar, making it a poor choice for a weight-loss breakfast. Smoak suggests swapping it for Oikos Triple Zero Blended Greek Yogurt, which has fewer calories and three times the protein. Small swaps like this can make a huge difference.
4. Pistachios
Pistachios are often advertised as a healthy snack, but Smoak warns they’re more of a fat source than a protein source. “Nuts are great, but don’t let marketing fool you,” he explains. If you’re trying to lose weight, consider a protein-based snack instead to keep hunger at bay without the extra fat.
5. Cereal
Smoak calls cereal one of the worst foods for weight loss. Despite claims like “made with real food” or “a good source of fiber,” cereal lacks the protein you need to start your day. “Cereal has none of what you need,” he says. Instead of cereal, opt for eggs or another protein-rich breakfast to keep you satisfied longer.
6. Juice
Even if you think juice is a healthy option, it’s full of sugar and lacks fiber. Smoak warns against popular brands like Tropicana, which offer sugar without any of the beneficial fiber from whole fruit. “Orange juice is just sugar without the fiber,” he explains. For better blood sugar control and energy, skip the juice and go for whole fruit.
7. Middle Aisle Foods
Smoak suggests focusing on the perimeter of the grocery store for the healthiest options. “Meat, fruits, and vegetables are on the perimeter,” he says. Avoid the middle aisles where sugary and processed foods tend to be located. These foods often contain hidden calories and additives that can sabotage your weight loss journey.
