Beware of Health Halos: Not All Veggie Foods Are Healthy

Want to eat healthier in 2025? A recent survey found that 19% of US adults plan to do the same. But be careful – some foods might seem healthy, but they're not. These are what experts call "health halo" foods. They trick you into thinking they're good for you, but they're not. Take vegetable chips, for example. You might think they're healthy because they're made from vegetables. But they're not. Dr. Mitchell Roslin, a weight loss surgeon, says these chips are loaded with calories, salt, and aren't very filling. They're no better for you than regular potato chips. Fresh vegetables with hummus or potatoes with the skin on are better choices. A dietitian named Abbey Sharp agrees. She says potatoes are naturally good for you. They have vitamins and don't have fat or cholesterol. But when you fry them, add salt, butter, or sour cream, they're not so healthy anymore. Even veggie straws, which look healthier, aren't that much different from potato chips. So, if you're trying to eat better, be smart about what you choose. Just because something sounds healthy doesn't mean it is.