Warning! Warning! Diet Foods That Aren't Diet

Do you fall into the trap of not paying much attention to the so-called "diet" foods you're eating? Like those 100-calorie snacks that call out to you at the grocery store. And at your desk. While reading. Watching TV. Just have the munchies.

If you're not paying enough attention, those low-calorie foods are adding up to be high-calorie empty calories.

Now if you're just eating one of these a day, it's not too bad. Gives you something sweet to satisfy, while not adding a ton of calories. Fine and dandy.

But are you eating just one a day? Or are you eating more? Maybe 2 or 3...or a whole box?

In general, these foods are higher carb than protein, and largely fat-free. Why is that important to mention?

Because the carbs are highly processed and go into your blood like it was sugar. And because there are little to no proteins or fats to slow down that stream of sugar, your blood sugar can spike...then drop like a rock. Then you need another snack to get you through to the next meal. It can be a vicious cycle.

The 100-calorie snacks aren't evil. But you do need to limit them to once a day, and eat them with something like a wedge of Laughing Cow low-fat cheese -- a protein source that slows down the amount of sugar released in your blood.