Photo by Marissa Angell

Staying mindful of what you eat is a common way to manage weight and nutrition. But even supposedly “healthy” diets can have their downfalls. Foods with fat- or sugar-free labels might not necessarily be healthier choices, and the substitute ingredients could have health risks of their own. And remember, too much of any food can pack on the calories, even when it comes to those favorite fruits and veggies. So enjoy those favorites — but remember to keep things in moderation, even when it comes to the healthy stuff.

The Takeaway: Don’t assume fat-free, sugar-free, or “diet” foods are always the healthiest choices.

Watch Out for Dangerfoods

See if those favorite munchies have their own hidden dangers.

Can Sugar Substitutes Make Us Fat?

Research suggests faux sweets might not be the ticket to guilt-free eating.