In a groundbreaking study, a group of US dietitians has conducted a rigorous nutritional analysis of America's most popular food items, revealing a list of the 100 most unhealthy grocery products. While some of the culprits are expected - such as fatty ice cream, potato chips, and cookies - there are several surprising items that may have been assumed to be healthy.

According to registered dietitians who led the analysis, it's not just the calorie, fat, and sugar content that determines the healthiness of a product. Additional factors like potentially harmful oils and hidden sugars can make seemingly innocent items detrimental to one's health.

Registered dietitian and author Lauren Manaker, known for her expertise in healthy food choices, has ranked the ten most surprising unhealthy foods on the list. These shocking findings challenge common assumptions about certain grocery items:

1. Bouillon cubes: The high salt content and chemical additives found in stock cubes, including palm oil, caramel color, and yellow 6, pose potential health hazards. Studies suggest that palm oil can lead to high levels of bad cholesterol, increasing the risk of heart disease. Caramel coloring has been linked to the production of a carcinogen, and yellow 6 has been shown to cause cancer in animal studies.

2. Microwave popcorn: Despite being perceived as a healthy snack due to its low calorie count and fiber content, popular brands of microwave popcorn have come under scrutiny for including potentially harmful ingredients such as palm oil and excessive sodium. Choosing pre-popped popcorn brands made with vegetable oils and less salt is recommended.

3. Bottled water: Surprisingly, drinking from plastic bottles can present health risks. Bisphenol-A (BPA), a chemical found in plastic bottles, may leach into water when exposed to heat. Chronic exposure to BPA has been linked to fertility issues, behavioral problems in children, increased blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Opting for BPA-free plastics or using aluminum bottles is advised.

4. Diet soda: While diet soda might seem like a calorie-free sweet option, its inclusion of aspartame increases the risk of cancer. Aspartame has also been associated with raised blood sugar levels and liver fat accumulation. Alternatives such as low or no sugar beverages like seltzers can be healthier choices.

5. Bottled smoothies: Bottled smoothies, even though made from fruit, can contain excessive amounts of added sugar. The unsuspecting sugar content in these "healthy" alternatives can lead to increased blood pressure, inflammation, weight gain, diabetes, liver disease, heart attack, and stroke. It is important to be aware of the sugar content and opt for homemade or low-sugar alternatives.

6. Margarine: Some brands of margarine, often containing palm oil, have been linked to cardiovascular disease. Consuming more fat than the recommended daily intake can increase the risk of heart disease and cancers. Swapping margarine for less processed options like olive oil is a healthier choice.

7. Pickles: Non-refrigerated pickles often contain preservatives like polysorbate 80 and sodium benzoate, which can be potential cancer risks. Polysorbate 80 has been linked to cancer in animal studies, while sodium benzoate increases chronic inflammation, potentially leading to an elevated cancer risk. Additionally, pickles tend to be high in salt, so moderation is key.

8. Canned soup: Canned soups frequently contain excessive amounts of sodium, which can encourage overeating. High sodium intake has been associated with various health issues. Cooking homemade soups or opting for low-sodium brands is advised.

9. Instant oatmeal: Instant oatmeal, although touted as a healthy option, often contains added sugars and salt. These processed versions can spike blood sugar levels, affecting overall health. Cooking oatmeal from scratch and adding natural sweetness with fruits is recommended.

10. Fruit yogurt: Fruit-flavored yogurt often derives its flavor from added sugar and juice concentrates rather than actual fruit. These high sugar yogurts lack protein and can leave you feeling hungry. Choosing high-protein yogurt without added fruit is a healthier alternative.

These findings remind us that healthy food choices are not always as straightforward as they may seem. Staying informed about the ingredients and nutritional contents of our favorite grocery items is crucial for maintaining a balanced and nourishing diet.