Snack Smarts

Some “healthy” foods aren’t always the best choice

FLAVORED YOGURT

One small container of low-fat flavored yogurt can come loaded with over 24 grams (almost six teaspoons) of sugar—more than two Oreos’ worth.

Look for brands with 12 grams of sugar or less per serving.

Or top protein-rich plain Greek yogurt with sliced fresh fruit.

BANANA CHIPS

Banana chips sound healthy—after all, they’re fruit. The problem: If the chips are fried, they can pack almost as many calories per ounce as potato chips, plus 10 grams of sugar.

Nosh on freezedried chips

(or dehydrated ones). Or just peel yourself a banana.

PRETZELS ETZELS

Though low in fat, a one-ounce serving (about nine small pretzels) can have 500 milligrams of sodium—more than 30 percent of the American Heart Association’s recommended daily intake.

Grab a handful of unsalted nuts

the next time you’re craving a savory, crunchy snack.

HUMMUS

Hummus can be good for you, but some brands contain a hefty dose of fat.

Choose a spread with no more than three grams of fat

per two-tablespoon serving. Or make your own (for an easy recipe, go to

Parade.com/snacks).

GRANOLA RANOLA

Even the organic kind can be a sugar bomb. Just a half cup can have 300 calories— nearly five times the amount in the same size serving of plain oatmeal—and 11 grams of sugar.

Fill your bowl with a low- or no-sugar cereal,

then sprinkle one or two tablespoons of granola on top.