Here’s a comparison of protein per 100 grams: Most vegan alternatives contain only 2 percent protein, while semi-hard dairy-based cheeses contain 18 percent. At the same time, the vegan version contains more binding and thickening agents, flavorings and more salt. “Vegan cheese and vegan sausages are highly processed foods that can increase the risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease and diabetes,” says Hinteregger-Männel.

3. Granola bars

If you’re on the go a lot, there’s probably a granola bar stashed in your bag to stave off occasional hunger pangs. However, it’s important to note that most granola bars contain a ton of sugar. And, despite their “rustic” appearance, they often do not contain the amount of fiber, vitamins or protein that one might expect. “They usually contain very little whole grain flakes, but rather more chocolate and crunchy bits made from white flour, glucose syrup or, even worse, high fructose corn syrup,” says Hinteregger- Männel, who adds that consuming too much fructose syrup, which is also increasingly used in soft drinks, can lead to fatty liver disease.

4. Dried fruits

Speaking of fructose, here’s another bad guy. Dried fruit, which is also often seen as a healthy snack or eaten as a substitute for fresh fruit at breakfast, is a fructose bomb. “Dried fruits contain a lot of sugar and fructose, especially dates and figs, which are found in many fruit bars,” explains the nutritionist. Instead of dried fruit, she says it’s best to opt for fresh apples, pears, bananas and plums, or any other non-dried fruit.

5. Sugar Alternatives

When it comes to sugar and sugar substituteswe’re all a little confused. Here’s the truth: unfortunately, the body I can’t really differentiate between different types of sugar. “Maple syrup, rice syrup and agave syrup are touted as healthy alternatives to sugar, but essentially contain a mixture of sugars like normal household sugar,” says Hinteregger-Männel. For example, sucrose is made up of fructose and glucose, rice syrup is made up of glucose and maltose, and agave syrup contains more fructose than glucose – and they all contain just as many calories and few others. nutrients.

Other sweeteners may seem like a slightly better option, but they also pose other problems. “Fashionable sugar substitutes like xylitol and erythritol contain virtually no calories, but according to the latest studies they can also increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and cause laxative effects if consumed in excess,” notes the doctor.

6. Breakfast cereals

Breakfast cereals are on the list of foods that aren’t as healthy as they seem, because they’re also too often high in sugar. Take granola, for example: Just like granola bars, the cereal version contains crunchy flakes held together with a sweetener. This is what makes granola so addictive! “Cornflakes, crunchy muesli and granola are delicious, but usually contain a lot of sugar and fat,” says Hinteregger-Männel. “Supermarket frosted cornflakes contain up to 35 grams of sugar; a standard ready-to-use granola of 20 grams. So what would be a healthy alternative for those who can’t imagine their morning without a bowl of cereal? “Whole oats with fruit, natural yogurt and cocoa nibs,” suggests Hinteregger-Männel.

7. Smoothies

In theory, a smoothie should be healthy. It’s full of vitamins from mixed whole fruits, isn’t it? But the ready-made smoothies found on supermarket shelves are often not so good: “In many cases, smoothies contain apple juice and other types of fruit as a base,” explains the doctor. “This means they also contain a lot of sugar and little fiber, which can cause blood glucose to rise quickly and prevent long-lasting satiety.”