Are you on a grocery run? Then it's the perfect time to rethink what goes into your cart. Yes, what you buy and skip has a profound effect on your health. Well, we know that you may already have a grocery list. But if you want to keep diseases at bay and make healthier choices, it’s just as important to know what not to buy. Mumbai-based Nutritionist Amita Gadre, who specializes in nutrition for lifestyle-related disorders, has now shared the top six supermarket foods she avoids at all costs, not even on cheat days.
Readymade dessert mixes
One food that you should avoid is ready-made dessert mix. Yes, that’s right. No matter how tempting it may seem, it is important to skip them. “Be it cakes or be it gulab jamun, these are loaded with trans fat as well as hydrogenated vegetable oil. I would never buy them,” the nutritionist said.
Biscuits
If you find yourself drawn to the snack aisle, especially the biscuits, be cautious. It's not a harmless snack, as you assume. They are high in refined flour, sugar, and unhealthy fats, which are clearly harmful to your health. “Stop eating those biscuits, please,” the nutritionist said.
Instant ramen noodles
Yes, that’s right. Instant noodles are not exactly good for your health. They lack nutritional benefits and also increase your risk of hypertension, high blood sugar, obesity, and abnormal cholesterol levels. “Instant ramen noodles, specifically the ramen kinds, because they are very high in fat. Of course, almost always, hydrogenated vegetable oils, which we don't recommend that you all should be eating. And it seems like those noodles are dry, but they are twice-fried. Beware,” the nutritionist cautioned.
Sugary beverages or carbonated drinks

(Pic courtesy: iStock)
Sugary beverages may be on sale every single time, but you should avoid them at all costs. Why? Soda and other sweetened beverages add empty calories and spike blood sugar levels. It could contribute to obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Butter substitutes or margarine
Another food item that you should skip is the substitutes of butter, such as margarine. “Most of these butter substitutes are made from hydrogenated vegetable fat. “I don't recommend them because we don't want trans fats,” the nutritionist said.
Frozen dinners
Yes, that’s right. Don’t reach for those frozen pizzas. Why? “I don't buy frozen dinners as well. Because most of these frozen dinners, even if you are buying them occasionally. Yes, I'm talking about those ready-to-eat parathas and, you know, the pizzas and naans that you get in the frozen dinner aisle. Stop buying those, please. You can buy the ingredients. You can buy, say, ready-made rotis and make a wrap out of them. But don't buy frozen dinners,” the health expert said. However, it is perfectly great if you plan to buy frozen veggies and fruits.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or dietary advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider or registered nutritionist before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.