We like to classify our Greatist dangerfoods into two categories: foods that are only bad in excess, and foods that are just plain unhealthy. Here are some of the big offenders:

  • Photo by Caitlin Covington

    Sushi. Sure there’s the obvious white rice vs. brown debate, but don’t even get us started on all those sauces. There’s the fatty mayo, the sticky sweet eel sauce, and super-salty soy sauce— not to mention all the frying that goes into those “crazy” rolls!

  • Frozen Yogurt. It’s rich in probiotics, sure, but it can also be packed with sugar and preservatives. Don’t get us wrong, we love our fro-yo, but it’s probably best kept as the occasional dessert splurge.
  • Diet Soda. While some might tout diet soda as the “healthy” version, studies suggest diet soda drinkers may actually gain more weight than folks who drink the real deal!
  • Energy Drinks. Where should we start: the sugar, caffeine, or other unproven chemicals and supplements? If it’ll cause you to sprout new appendages (like wings, perhaps?) it’s probably a bad idea.

The Takeaway: Not every supposedly healthy food is all it’s cracked up to be. Read on for even more foods to steer clear of.

The Caesar Salad Alternative

Caesar salad may be a dangerfood, but our California spinach salad still offers a creamy dressing— minus the risk of salmonella and extra calories.

Fun Fact:

Unlike many popular fruits and veggies, the avocado is actually native to North America. It originated in South-Central Mexico more than 7,000 years ago.