Grayson West
You’ve done it—went to a place like Panda Express or Chiplote and ordered that “light” option, ready to feel good about your meal. It’s often those names that make them feel light. However, some of those dishes are far from healthy. Here’s a quick look at what might be lurking on the menu.
Granola Parfait
Granola has its perks, like fiber and protein. That’s why many people think that all granola parfaits are healthy and nutritious snacks. However, they are often drenched in sugar, which makes them more like candy. Let’s not forget that flavored yogurt can also be full of unhealthy ingredients.
California Roll
The rice used in these classic sushi rolls is often sticky and sweetened with sugar, which turns what seems like a light meal into a carb-heavy snack. Plus, imitation crab (the main protein) can be packed with sodium and sugars. So, it’s better to stick to a roll that uses fresh fish.
Grilled Chicken Salad
If a grilled chicken salad seems like the perfect move to stay healthy, let’s break this down: Grilled chicken can be a lean protein, but the creamy dressing, cheese, and crunchy croutons pile on the calories. Many restaurants go overboard with portions.
Veggie Wrap
While the veggies themselves might be healthy, there can be high-calorie sauces. Even the tortilla can add up. Tortillas, often used to roll up the goods, aren’t always healthy, especially if they’re flour-based. Always ask what’s inside before ordering.
Mediterranean Hummus Plate
Hummus has a reputation as a healthy snack, and for a good reason—it’s made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and spices. But things can go sideways when it’s paired with pita bread or chips, which have excess fats and calories. You might find yourself eating a lot more than you realize.
Vegan Burger
Yes, they skip the animal products, but some vegan burgers can be just as calorie-dense as their meaty counterparts. Many restaurants tend to process and fill vegan burgers with extra sodium and oils to mimic the taste and texture of meat. So, don’t let the word “vegan” fool you.
Egg White Omelette
What happens when you add cheese, bacon, or sausage to the low-calorie, high-protein egg white? Suddenly, your “healthy” omelet becomes a greasy breakfast. You’d be surprised to know that many eateries are notorious for making omelets large and stuffed with all kinds of extras.
Acai Bowl
Brands often advertise acai bowls as the ultimate superfood meal. Sadly, the acai puree itself can be filled with sweeteners, and the toppings like honey and fruit can rack up calories in a flash. Since acai is packed with antioxidants and nutrients, it’s a good option when you stick to a simper bowl.
Tomato Basil Soup
Many restaurant versions of this soup hide heavy cream and butter. Those additions can completely change the nutritional profile. A tomato basil soup can go from light and healthy to creamy and unhealthy in no time. That’s why homemade soups are best.
Crispy Chicken Salad
You’d think a crispy chicken salad might be a healthier alternative to a fried chicken sandwich, but here’s the truth: the crispy coating has a lot more fat than grilled chicken. To avoid the extra calories, go for grilled chicken and a vinaigrette dressing on the side, which makes a much better pair.