5 'healthy' foods a gastroenterologist never buys from the supermarket
Have you ever been tempted to buy foods with labels like 'diabetic friendly', 'probiotic', 'organic', 'natural', 'gluten-free', and 'fat-free'? A gastroenterologist reveals why he skips many 'healthy' foods from the supermarket. Often labeled as healthy, they are loaded with ingredients that pose a threat to health. They lack nutritional value, and the big bold claims mostly do not deliver.
If you browse the aisles of your local supermarket, you'll find labels like 'diabetic friendly', 'probiotic', 'organic', 'natural', 'gluten-free', and 'fat-free', among others.
You're more likely to reach for these labels in your quest for a healthier diet. But the big question is: do these big, bold claims really deliver? Or is it just another gimmicky marketing strategy? What if we told you that most of the foods you believe are 'healthy' actually aren't? In a video shared on Instagram, Dr. Pal Manickam, a California-based gastroenterologist trained at the University of Massachusetts and Wayne State University, shared a list of supplies he won't buy from the supermarket.
What are they? Let's find out.
Flavored Yogurts
Yogurt is great for your gut. A recent study found that yogurt consumption over time may protect against colorectal cancer through changes in the gut microbiome. But here's the catch: it's plain Greek yogurt, not the flavored ones. Dr. Manickam avoids flavored yogurt. Why? "Most flavored yogurts are loaded with sugar and artificial stuff. If you really want the gut benefits, go for the one with minimal sugar or even go for plain curd or yogurt and add your own fruit," he suggested.
Packaged Fruit Juice
Another common mistake is grabbing packaged fruit juices. Many beverages claim to contain real fruit, but is it really healthy? "Just because it says 100% fruit does not mean it is healthy. These juices are often just sugary water with the fiber stripped out," he said. If you really want the benefits of the fruit, skip the juice and eat the fruit. "You're better off eating the whole fruit. That way, you can get the fiber without the sugar," the doctor said. The effects are not limited to gut health. A 2024 study by the American Heart Association found that adults who drank two liters (about 67 ounces) or more of sugar or artificially sweetened drinks per week had a higher risk of an irregular heart rhythm.
Probiotic Supplements
The probiotic supplement industry thrives on promises, and Dr. Manickam notes that these products work for only a limited number of people. "It works only for a few people. Don't buy this repeatedly. Most of these don't even survive through your stomach acid," the gastroenterologist said. Instead, he recommends eating probiotics from natural fermented foods like curd, kanji, or idlis.
Sugar-Free Biscuits
Foods marketed as diabetic-friendly or diet options may seem like smart choices until you look at their ingredient lists. For instance, sugar-free biscuits. "They sound like a smart and healthy alternative, but these are full of artificial sweeteners and gut-irritating ingredients. They mess with your blood sugar and your gut microbes. Don't be fooled by the diabetic-friendly label," the doctor warned.
Breakfast Cereals
Labels like '99% whole grains' or '80% fruit and natural sugars' may fool you into buying breakfast cereals, but Dr. Manickam reminds you that they won't really benefit your gut. "They market as healthy, but most cereals and granolas are packed with sugar, refined oils, and barely have any real fiber. These spike your blood sugar and don't really keep you full," he said. Instead, he suggests a bowl of home-cooked poha or upma to help your gut. So, the next time you're on a grocery run, ensure you make informed decisions. The big claims on the packet won't necessarily tell you the whole story. Consume real food, and your gut will thank you.
Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment, or before changing your diet or supplement regimen.
