HEALTHY OR OVERRATED? FOODS THAT DO NOT DESERVE THE HYPE IN 2025 - BY MISHKWAATH

I am Mishkwaath a nutritionist at The Kenko Life.

In the age of Instagram wellness, every year brings new "superfoods" that promise better energy, glowing skin, and immunity boosts. But not everything labeled healthy actually lives up to the hype or even necessary.

Here’s a list of popular health foods in 2025 that are overrated, overpriced, or just not better than everyday alternatives.

1. Coconut Sugar - 

The Claim: A "natural" sugar with a lower glycemic index.The Reality:

• Still spikes blood sugar like regular sugar

• Offers very little nutritional advantage

• Often more expensive than jaggery or honey

Alternative: Try jaggery or use dates sparingly if you need a sweet fix.

2. Quinoa in Every Meal

The Claim: A complete plant protein.The Reality:

• Good, yes but not superior to local grains like millets, amaranth (rajgira), or lentils.

• Often imported = expensive and less sustainable in India

Alternative: Mix millets or moong dal with rice for a balanced meal.

3. Cold-Pressed Juices

The Claim: Packed with nutrients and enzymes.The Reality:

• Lacks fiber

• Can be high in sugar

• Nutrients degrade quickly after pressing

Alternative: Eat whole fruits, or make smoothies with fiber intact.

4. Coconut Yogurt

The Claim: Dairy-free probiotic magic.The Reality:

• Often lacks live cultures

• Low in protein

• High in saturated fat

 Alternative: Homemade curd or plant-based curd made with soy or pea protein.

5. Imported Supergreens Powders

The Claim: All your veggies in one scoop!The Reality:

• Expensive, overly processed

• May contain fillers

• Not a substitute for real, fiber-rich vegetables

Alternative: Eat fresh, seasonal greens like spinach, amaranth, or moringa.

6. Almond Milk (Store-Bought)

The Claim: Dairy-free and heart-healthy.

The Reality:

• Often only 2–5% almonds

• Added thickeners, preservatives, sugar

• Low in protein

Alternative: Make it at home or choose soy milk for protein.

7. Protein Bars & “Fit” Snacks

The Claim: High-protein, guilt-free treats.The Reality:

• Often just candy bars in disguise

• Hidden sugars, artificial flavors, and cheap protein isolates

Alternative: Roasted chana, boiled eggs (for non-veg), nuts, or homemade protein laddoos.

Don’t Fall for the Hype

Trendy doesn’t always mean healthy. Many so-called superfoods are overpriced, oversold, and underwhelming in nutrition. Stick with local, whole, seasonal foods; they have stood the test of time for a reason.

At Kenko Life, you can choose a variety of healthy meal options for your daily dose of nutrition. Call at – +91 901906245