Flatbreads 

The upscale novel version of pizza can come close to its greasy counterpart nutritionally depending on toppings and serving size. Eight restaurant appetizer sized cuts weigh in like two slices of large pizza at over 1,000 calories.  

Parfaits 

(aka yogurt sundaes) Take already sweetened vanilla yogurt and combine it with syrup-packed canned fruit and low-fat granola for a sugar bomb. A better version will have only fresh fruit and granola with nuts.   

Omelets 

The goodness of eggs [three is a bit much], together with cheese & ham on a buttered grill or pan make for a saturated fat nightmare. Opt for an egg-white version loaded with veggies for a healthier omelet. 

Chicken wrap 

Just like large burritos, wraps are often made with 13” tortillas – the carbohydrate equivalent of 3 slices of bread. Plenty of sauce or spread can hide a smaller portion of chicken. A veggie-filled grilled chicken wrap in a 10” whole wheat tortilla is better. 

Fish sandwich 

The health advantage seafood has over meats is minimized when it’s a coated and fried small portion placed in a white flour bun. The cheese and tartar sauce further outweigh its benefits. Better to have a grilled fish soft taco or an ahi fillet on a whole grain bun. 

Energy drinks 

Full-size cans of regular are loaded with sugar that may leave you with a crash later, while the shots are largely high-dose vitamins. While you are stimulated to stay awake, the pick-me-up is temporary. Reenergize with a healthy snack, calisthenics or a quick nap instead… coffee optional. 

Diet frozen dinners 

Approximately 300 calories is hardly a meal, especially if it’s low in protein and is laden with sugar and sodium. Mostly sauce is likely to leave you hungry in a couple of hours and reaching for high-calorie food. A more substantial meal with adequate fiber and solids will satisfy you longer and prevent overeating later. 

Light salad dressing (<80 Cals per 2 Tbsp) 

Most varieties of bottled light dressings replace the fat with extra sweeteners, thickening agents and sodium. Organic options will have the least offenders. If you find a healthy one or make your own, you still need to pay attention to the amount you actually use. 

Fat-free gravy 

If you’re looking for salty liquid starch, then this is it. The powdered or jarred nonfat versions of this classic rich sauce are basically just sodium-filled fluid with binders. They are chock full of corn syrup, disodium guanylate, disodium inosinate, and caramel color. #FakeFood   

Low-calorie margarine (<60 Cals per Tbsp) 

Plant oils rich in unsaturated fats are hydrogenated to solid form in margarine. Reducing them from spreads means you’re getting stabilizers, emulsifiers, monoglycerides, TBHQ, trans fat and more artificial flavors. 

Sugar-free syrup 

One hundred percent pure maple syrup is sap from a maple tree. Pancake syrup is an inexpensive processed alternative. Both are basically sugared water; take out the sugar and you’re left with coloring, preservatives and artificial flavor. #NotReal