7 Foods That Aren't As Healthy As They Seem

There are a number of foods that aren't as healthy as they seem. Make these 7 foods healthier with a few tweaks.

Though they're a good source of fiber, many bran muffins are made with loads of refined flour, butter, and sugar. Look for recipes that call for whole-wheat flour or replace part or all of the sugar with no-sugar-added applesauce.

Topped with bacon, egg, avocado, and blue cheese, this salad quickly becomes a major diet bomb. If you love cobb salad, make your own, being mindful of the amount of egg, avocado, and cheese that you use. You can also swap a leaner "bacon" like turkey bacon if you're making this salad at home.

Though it may not look like one, couscous is a pasta and it's made with refined flour.  Couscous can be a part of a healthy diet, but, like other pastas, a whole-wheat variety is a better option. Click here for a few delicious ways to prepare whole-wheat couscous.

Don't be fooled by granola: It's often high in fat, sugar, and calories. If you're buying prepared granola, be sure to check the nutrition facts panel for important information including serving size — a typical serving of granola is in the range of ¼ cup to ½ cup. Making your own granola at home can be healthier; look for a recipe that uses a heart healthy oil and goes easy on the sugar.

Not all smoothies are unhealthy, but proceed with caution when it comes to these drinks. Some fruit smoothies can pack as many calories as a meal and even more sugar. Stick to smoothies that use both fruits and vegetables, and be sure to pay attention to serving size. Looking for a healthy option? Try our Superfood Smoothie.

Even if they're masquerading as healthy and loaded with vegetables (we're looking at you, spinach wraps), flatbreads can be high in calories. Many are made with refined flours as well. By the time you add cheese and cold cut deli meats, your wrap can easily use up a third of your day's calories — or more. For a healthier lunch on the go, choose whole grain wraps (with whole grains as the first ingredient) or use hearty leafy greens like kale or collard greens instead of the flatbread. Then, load up on vegetables. When possible, choose avocado over cheese and mustard or vinegar over mayonnaise.

Flavored yogurts and premade granola can be very high in sugar. Fill a mason jar with the two (never mind that many yogurt parfait recipes also call for sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or jam) and you're well on your way to a serious sugar high. For a healthier parfait, layer unsweetened Greek yogurt with fresh fruit and cooked quinoa.