Love instant popcorns, diet drinks? Celebrity nutritionist shares 5 common foods that may be quietly ruining your health

Many of us assume that foods marketed as convenient, low-calorie or everyday staples are harmless additions to our diet. From packaged granola bars and flavoured yoghurts to breakfast cereals, fruit juices and protein snacks, several commonly consumed products can contain hidden sugars, excess sodium, unhealthy fats or artificial additives. While they may seem like healthier choices at first glance, regular consumption can affect overall health and well-being over time. Celebrity nutritionist Suman Agarwal recently highlighted this concern in her latest Instagram post.

The nutritionist issued a warning against 5 common foods that often find a place in our kitchens without us fully realising the potential impact they may have on our health.

Colas and diet colas

According to Suman Agarwal, both regular and diet colas deserve a place on the avoid list. She explained that the caffeine present in these beverages may interfere with the absorption of important nutrients such as iron and calcium. The nutritionist also highlighted that regular colas often contain high-fructose corn syrup, a sweetener commonly used in processed foods. As for diet versions, she pointed to the artificial sweetener aspartame, claiming that it may negatively affect gut health and digestion.

The bhujia trap

The nutritionist also advised against commercially available bhujia, which she described as being high in calories, fat and spices. To illustrate her point, Suman Agarwal noted that a 100-gram serving can contain nearly equal amounts of besan and oil. Such a high fat content, when consumed frequently, may contribute to lifestyle-related concerns such as obesity, high blood pressure and heart disease.

Instant noodles

Another pantry staple Suman Agarwal warned about was instant noodles. The health expert said these products often contain monosodium glutamate (MSG), a flavour enhancer commonly used in packaged foods. According to her, excessive consumption may be associated with digestive discomfort and other health concerns, making it a food she prefers to avoid.

Hidden colours in spice mixes

Suman Agarwal urged viewers to pay closer attention to premixed masalas used in dishes such as biryani and butter chicken. The nutritionist claimed that some products contain artificial food colourings, including additives such as Red 40 and Yellow 5 and 6. According to her, these colourants have been linked to hyperactivity in children and allergic reactions, while their long-term health effects continue to be studied.

Microwave popcorn packets

The final item on her list was microwave popcorn packets. Suman Agarwal clarified that popcorn itself is not the problem. Instead, her concern centred on the packaging used for microwave-ready varieties. She claimed that some bags may contain chemicals such as PFOA and PFOS, substances that have raised health concerns in the past due to their potential links to thyroid issues and certain cancers.

Concluding her post, Suman Agarwal encouraged people to be more mindful of the foods and packaged products they bring into their homes. Her message was simple: small dietary choices made every day can have a significant impact on long-term health and well-being.