Certain foods can be deceptive when it comes to their calorie content.
They may appear innocent or healthy, but in reality, they contain more calories than expected.
Here are some examples.
Nuts and Nut Butters
Nuts are rich in healthy fats and protein, but they are calorie-dense.
A small handful of nuts or a spoonful of nut butter can pack a significant number of calories, making portion control important.
Avocado
Avocado is a nutritious fruit with heart-healthy fats, but it is calorie-dense.
A single avocado can contain over 200 calories, so be mindful of the amount you consume.
Dried Fruits
Dried fruits like raisins, dates, and apricots are sweet and tasty, but they lose water content during the drying process, concentrating their natural sugars and calories.
As a result, a small portion can be high in calories.
Salad Dressings
Creamy salad dressings, like ranch or Caesar, often contain added fats and calories.
Even a small amount can significantly increase the calorie count of your salad.
Granola
Granola is often perceived as a healthy snack or cereal option, but it can be calorie-dense due to its combination of oats, nuts, seeds, and sweeteners.
Smoothies and Juices
Smoothies and fruit juices can contain several servings of fruits, which means they can be high in calories and sugars.
Be mindful of portion sizes and added sugars in these beverages.
Energy Bars
While energy bars can be convenient for on-the-go snacking, they are often packed with calories, sugars, and fats.