by Mindsome Team
In Lebanon these days, health is the new lifestyle flex. You’ll find matcha lattes on menus from Mar Mikhael to Broumana, Greek yogurt in everyone’s fridge, and influencers raving about protein bars after Pilates. Eating “clean” has become the trend, but what if some of these so–called healthy foods are actually making things worse?
Just because something looks good in a glass jar or carries a “low-fat” label doesn’t mean it’s nourishing you. In fact, some popular picks are doing more harm than good.
Here are 7 foods that wear a health halo but might be sabotaging your energy, digestion, and goals, plus better options that are actually worth the hype.
1. Flavored Yogurt
Greek yogurt is the new Lebanese health favorite: rich in protein and gut-friendly. But the flavored kinds? They‘re often loaded with added sugars, artificial fruit flavors, and preservatives.
Instead, you can go for plain Greek yogurt and top it with real fruit, cinnamon, or a drizzle of honey. You‘ll get the benefits without the blood sugar crash.
2. Granola
Granola has become a staple in wellness bowls, but don’t be fooled. Most store–bought versions are packed with sugar, oil, and calories. It was originally made for people going on long hikes who needed dense energy, not for someone answering emails in a café.
Instead, you can make your own with oats, nuts, and a tiny bit of honey, or go for low–sugar options and use it as a sprinkle, not a cereal bowl.
3. Vegetable Chips
Beet chips, kale chips — they sound healthy. But most of them are deep–fried, salted, and processed to the point that they have almost none of the original vegetable‘s nutrients. It’s like calling baklava a “nut bar,” technically not wrong, but wildly misleading.
Instead, you can slice real vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or zucchini and bake them at home with olive oil and zaatar.
4. Protein Bars
Just because your bar says “20g of protein” doesn’t mean it’s a good choice. Many are loaded with sugar, artificial flavors, and chemicals, making them no better than a chocolate bar from the supermarket. It’s like going to yoga, then hitting the drive-thru on the way home.
Instead, you can snack on boiled eggs, a small banana with tahini, or a date with almonds, which gives you real energy from real food.
5. Rice Cakes
Crispy, low–calorie, and basically… air.
Rice cakes look innocent, but they’re all fast carbs with zero fiber, zero protein, and not much else. They spike your blood sugar and leave you hungry 20 minutes later. It’s like texting someone who replies with “k.” — all hype, no substance.
Instead, you can have whole grain toast with avocado or labneh and za’atar, which gives more flavor, more fullness, and more nourishment.
6. Low–Fat Foods
Low–fat labneh? Low-fat cheese? Sounds healthier, but when fat is taken out, sugar and additives are often added in to keep the flavor. And fat isn’t the enemy, your body needs it to absorb nutrients and feel full.
Instead, you can enjoy full-fat foods in moderation, like a spoonful of real labneh or a handful of raw nuts. Natural fats are part of what keeps you satisfied.
7. Salads with Creamy Dressings
Looks supportive. Acts supportive. But quietly sabotaging you.
We all love a good fattoush or tabbouleh, but throw in a store–bought creamy dressing like ranch, Caesar, or “light” honey mustard, and suddenly your salad has more calories than a shawarma sandwich. It’s the equivalent of ordering a “detox” juice with a side of fries.
Instead, you can make your own dressing with olive oil, lemon, vinegar, or tahini. Add fresh herbs or mustard for extra flavor.
So, just because something has a health buzz doesn’t mean it’s good for your body. Food marketing is clever, but you can be smarter. Think beyond the trend, read the labels, and most importantly: listen to how food makes you feel.