We’ve all come to believe that a product labeled “healthy” is actually a healthy option. However, it’s far from the truth. “Healthy Food” is a marketing term used to describe foods that are supposedly a healthier option than the normal version. Low fat, fat-free, diet, light, sugar-free, and the many other terms used, most especially “natural” are unregulated, undefined, and miss leading.

Studies have shown that most diet foods and drinks are not what they’ve been made out to be. It’s eye-opening and mind-boggling but absolutely important to note, in order to make the right choices. Many low fat, diet food, and drinks are without a doubt an unhealthy choice. They contain a lot more added sugar and salt than regular foods. Here are five myths about healthy foods that will blow your mind.

1. Flavoured Water has less sugar than soft drinks
Who would have thought that water with a little flavour will be the beginning of the end? Research has shown that a bottle of flavoured water contains more sugar than a bottle of soft drink. In addition, they contain aspartame, an additive that is 180 times sweeter than sugar and also has preservatives. You’re better off squeezing fresh lemon into a glass of water.

2. Brown bread is healthier than White bread
The difference between brown bread and white bread is whole grain. But not all brown bread is made with whole grain. Some are made with caramel colouring or a little extra whole wheat which is not that much healthier than white bread.

3. Sea salt has less sodium
Salt is salt. Table salt and Sea salt contain an equal amount of sodium gram for gram. Don’t be fooled by the pretty packaging and the misleading label “natural”. They are exactly the same, the only difference is the granules.

4. Brown eggs are healthier than white eggs
All eggs provide the same amount of nutrition. The colour of the shell doesn’t determine whether it’s healthier or not. Rather it’s based on the type of hen that laid the egg. White hens lay white eggs, and red hens lay brown eggs.

5. Low fat is better than high-fat foods
Maintaining a healthy weight is important and many high-fat foods are packed full of nutrition. When it comes to weight loss, believe it or not, research has shown that high-fat foods have been proven to be more effective than low-fat foods in achieving your goals. Good fat is essential for optimal health and low-fat foods have been proven to be linked to a greater risk of health issues. But it goes without saying that moderation is key.

Hopefully, you’ll be on the right track and no longer be confused with the many options out there. this is your wake-up call to no longer get carried away and make the right choices.