These are the 7 red flag ingredients the trainer says are designed to keep you eating.
We all know that snacks are delicious, but most of them are unhealthy, often because of the ingredients. “When it comes to snacks, I try to help clients focus a little more on wholeness and awareness. Many packaged foods aren’t inherently ‘bad’, but many are designed to keep us coming back for more rather than keeping us full or satisfied,” Life Time Plymouth Nutrition Nutrition Coach and Personal Trainer Keri Anderson tells Eat This, Not that out for a clients. Here are 7 red flag ingredients hiding in your favorite grocery store.
Added Sugar
Added sugar, “especially when it’s hidden,” is a common culprit. Ingredients such as cane sugar, brown rice syrup, tapioca syrup, or fruit juice concentrate can be combined quickly, especially when using multiple varieties of a single product.
Highly Refined Seed Oils
Another thing to look for? Heavily processed seed oils. “Fats like soybean, corn, or canola oil are very common in packaged snacks. Not that they need to be avoided entirely, but they’re easy to overdo and are often combined with carbs and salt in ways that make eating difficult,” says Anderson.
Artificial Sweeteners
Beware of artificial sweeteners. “Ingredients like sucralose or aspartame are very common in ‘low sugar’ snacks. “For some people, this can keep cravings for sugary foods high and make it harder to feel satisfied,” says Anderson.
Alcohol Alcohol
Sugary drinks are also a problem. “Things like erythritol, xylitol, or maltitol are common in protein bars and keto snacks. Although they can reduce the sugar content, they can cause constipation or digestive disorders in some people,” says Anderson.
Long List of Ingredients
The long ingredient list is daunting. “When a snack has a long list of ingredients, it’s usually a sign that it’s more processed than nutritious,” says Anderson.
Low Protein and Low Fiber
Although generally, low amounts of protein and low fiber are not good. “Even if a snack seems ‘healthy,’ if it doesn’t have protein or fiber, it probably won’t keep you full for long.” This is one of the main reasons people feel they are always eating,” said Anderson.
Natural Flavors and Flavor Enhancers
And, finally, be aware of “natural flavors” and flavor enhancers. “This is a broad term that can include a variety of processed compounds designed to enhance flavor. It’s not necessarily harmful, but often food labeling is more about flavor engineering than nutrition,” he said.
Here’s What To Look For In Your Stomach
The main point? “Overall, I always remind clients that it’s rarely just one ingredient; it’s a combination. When a snack is built around sugar, fat, and salt together, it’s much easier to eat,” he says. Things like fruit (apples, oranges, berries), meat sticks or sticks, nuts, Greek yogurt, or something like a protein shake can go a long way. These tend to have fewer ingredients and a better balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, which help keep you full and keep energy stable,” he continues.” It doesn’t have to be perfect or fully processed, just a small change of choice that really satisfies. The easiest way to deal with snacking is to ask: ‘Will this slow me down and support my energy, or will I reach for something else in 30 minutes?’ This question alone can change a lot. “
Leah Groth
Leah Groth is an experienced shopping editor and reporter for Best Life and Eat This, Not That! bringing readers the best new finds, trends, and deals every week. Learn more about Leah
