Is the “Health Food Section” Really Healthier?

I recently came across a video from Dr. Joey Muñoz that caught my attention. Joey Muñoz is a nutrition and health educator with a PhD in nutritional sciences. He’s known for breaking down nutrition myths and providing straightforward, evidence-based advice. In this particular video, Joey tackled a catchy, somewhat loaded statement:

“If your grocery store has a health food section. What does that make the rest of the store?”

Right off the bat, it’s a clever way to spark conversation and get people thinking about what we consider “healthy” food. But as Joey points out, the idea that everything outside the health food aisle is unhealthy is a massive oversimplification.

Marketing Over Meaning: What “Health Food” Really Means

Here’s the thing: Health food sections in grocery stores are more marketing strategy than genuine commitment to your health. These sections are typically stocked with expensive versions of regular foods, all dressed up with buzzwords like organic, non-GMO, natural, gluten-free, or vegan. The kicker? Just because something is labeled this way doesn’t mean it’s healthier.

Take gluten-free products, for example. They’re essential for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. But for everyone else, gluten-free snacks and cereals are often just ultra-processed foods with fancy labels. It’s the same story with many “organic” or “natural” products. Labels that sound health-focused can often be nothing more than marketing tools meant to justify higher prices.

Healthy Foods Are Everywhere - Not Just One Aisle

Plus, you know what you won’t find in the health food section? Fresh apples, broccoli, chicken breasts, lentils, or whole grains—basic, nutrient-dense foods that are truly good for you. And why’s that? Because you can’t put a marketing spin on a plain apple and charge $5 for it.

Dr. Muñoz makes an excellent point that you can find plenty of healthy, nutrient-dense foods throughout the rest of the supermarket. Think fresh fruits and vegetables, beans, lean proteins, whole grains, and even canned and frozen foods. These options are often cheaper and just as nutritious (if not more) than the pricey, highly processed options in the so-called health food section.

It’s a refreshing reminder that “processed” doesn’t always mean bad either. For example, frozen veggies and canned beans are technically processed but can be super healthy, convenient, and affordable. The word “processed” itself has become unfairly demonized in wellness culture.

What’s most important is that you focus on the quality of your diet overall, not just whether your food comes from a designated “health food” section. Nutrient-dense, whole foods are available all over the grocery store, and you don’t need to drain your wallet to eat healthily.

So, next time you’re walking through the store and feel like you’re “doing it wrong” because you’re not shopping exclusively from the health food aisle—just know, you’re not. Health is about making balanced, nutritious choices, not about chasing the latest marketing trend.

I’m here to support you on your journey to a healthier, fitter life. As always, I appreciate your feedback and suggestions. Let me know what topics you’d like me to cover in future issues by replying to this email.

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Be well,

Dave

Please note: This newsletter is designed for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for advice tailored to your health and fitness needs.