Remember the golden rule that if something is taken away, something else is probably put in it's place. If your peanut butter is labeled 'fat-free' (is that even possible?), check out the monstrous amount of added sugar and aartifical ingredients needed to make it appear like the real thing. Ya know, the kind made with PEANUTS. Often times, manufacturers will add extra ingredients to the already-processed product to make it taste as though it isn't missing anything. These extra ingredients are usually preservatives and chemicals that you can't even pronounce, let alone digest. Gross, right?
Another reason to avoid these faux-foods is because they can actually lead to weight gain, which I'm guessing is the opposite of your goal. "But it doesn't have any fat in it...". You're right, it doesn't- and that is precisely why you can put on the pounds from consuming such products in excess. When you eat a high-sugar food item with no fat in it, your blood sugar spikes and it's missing that healthy fat to keep your blood sugar steady. When you eat a 'sugar-free' item, your body assumes that sugar has been consumed. This can trigger additional cravings, over-consumption, and fat storage. Not to mention the host of gastrointestinal symptoms that come along with excess artificial sugar intake.
My advice to you is to remind yourself of this: if you have to buy a 'fat-free' or 'sugar-free' version of something, than you probably shouldn't be eating it anyway. Think about it. If you're buying 'fat-free' Oreos, then you are probably eating way too many Oreos to begin with. These foods should be an exception to the rule, a treat, a once-in-a-blue-moon kinda thing. Plus, what fun is a half-as-good Oreo? Truth be told, these half-stack versions of your favorite comfort foods are not as satisfying and will probably leave you wanting (and eating) more.
Simply put, buy the real deal. Don't spend extra money on a watered-down version of what you really want to eat. Keep indulgent foods to a minimum and truly enjoy them when you have them- which should be rarely. Most of all, look at your food labels and stick to ones that contain ingredients you recognize.
Melissa Stoner R.D.
Registered Dietitian
Certified Personal Trainer
Professional Chef