Nowadays, being fit and healthy has become the foremost challenge as everyone is in a time crunch. We have no time left with us to take care of ourselves. Our schedule and lifestyle are designed in such a way that we end up getting obese, due to lack of workout or absence of a regular diet plan. In order to take care of our health, we head towards the 'healthy' foods that are lined up on the supermarket shelves, which we believe will benefit us. However, we aren't aware that there are some products are infiltrate your pantry masquerading as healthy foods.

To find out which health foods are actually unhealthy, read on:

1. Smoothies

You always had a pre-conceived notion regarding smoothies that they are lip-smacking, scrumptious and healthy. But, there lurks a problem. Your most loved smoothie bowl has sugar bombs in it. Some smoothies may be healthy and nutritious, but mostly they are loaded with calories. It contains way more calories and sugar than your daily recommended intake. So, if you care, leave that smoothie bowl right away! Add honey for producing a healthier alternative.

2. Flavoured Yoghurt

Yoghurt is a healthy quick food that is always recommended by our health experts. It is because it contains healthy bacteria, boosts health and reduces fat. But flavoured yoghurt is no good for you. To enhance the taste, the food companies add sugar in the yoghurt, which then becomes calorie laden. This sugar loaded yoghurt sabotages your weight loss plan, and instead of soothing your gut contributes to your weight increase. So, before buying a yoghurt this time, be sure to look for the low sugar versions or consume plain yoghurt.

3. Diet Soda

We are already aware that regular soda is one of the worst drinks to be consumed. This is the reason we swap full-fledged sodas with a diet soda. But alas, diet soda too is no good. It may be calorie free but it is unhealthy for sure, because of the artificial sweeteners that not only increase the sugar content but also escalate the growth of bad bacteria in the gut. When the body reacts with the artificial sweeteners, the blood sugar level also increases, which ultimately leads to weight gain. So, go for a fresh juice instead!

4. Soy Milk

Soy Milk, which is often touted as a great source of potassium and protein, is often pitched as a healthy alternative to cow milk. But drinking flavoured soy milk can add up to 50 calories or more per cup. Processed soy milk may also contain high levels of goitrogens, a substance which is responsible for causing thyroid problems. So, try unsweetened almond milk or nut milk instead for fitness or weight loss.

5. Microwaved Popcorn

Popcorn, which is a whole grain, has several health benefits. But did you know the pre-packed microwave popcorn can be the worst snack present on the planet in terms of health? All thanks to the additives and chemicals it contains. Several brands of popcorn contain higher amounts of saturated fats. And they become worse when the packaging is also lined with perfluorooctanoic acid, i.e., toxic stuff. If you actually want to enjoy healthy popcorn, then go and make it on your own. Also, say no to microwave and switch to your gas stove!

6. Instant Oatmeal

Oatmeal is one of the best breakfast choices, but if you are consuming those flavoured two-minute packs then think again. The oats you are consuming in that instant meal have most likely been refined and filled with sugar. Alarming, isn't it? Instead of consuming this unhealthy version, switch to healthy oatmeal breakfast dressed with honey and fruits like berries and nuts.

7. Packed Juices

Packed juices might be extremely convenient, but beware as they may contain added sugars and substitutes. Preservatives are another poison found in these packed juices. Instead, eat the fruits raw, or make fresh juice and take it with you in a to-go mug.

8. Protein Bars

Protein bars are nothing but just those glorified candy bars which provide you with a sugar boost. They often contain artificial flavours, colours and gas causing compounds like sucralose, which harm our health. Many protein bars have an overdose of carbohydrates than protein, that again proves it to be a wrong choice. When you are exhausted, they provide you instant energy. But hunger returns soon as you are not satiated. So, go for dark chocolate instead of an unhealthy protein bar.

And last but not the least, remember to read the labels carefully before purchasing!