The food we eat is often subject to scrutiny.
If not by us, by those around us.
When did eating become to complicated! Food is the essence of our wellbeing.
Keeping it simple and closest to its most original form will naturally be superior.
Let me clear some misunderstandings about a few food underdogs.
BREAD
Those who have followed my plans will vouch that bread can indeed be a satisfying and healthy choice. We are talking of the basic bread loaf and not the oil laden foccacias, herbed rolls or sweetened versions!
Bread is a source of carbohydrates, which form an intergral part in a balanced diet.
Besides furnishing B vitamins which help your body convert carbohydrates, proteins and fats to energy, it is rich in fiber too.
Moreover, it is versatile and convenient, low in fat and high in taste!
POTATOES
Potatoes are nutrition powerhouses! They are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium and micronutrients like copper, manganese and even lutein.
They reduce water retention and lower blood pressure.
They are also known to promote sleep and relieve premenstrual symptoms.
It is also beneficial as a face mask to treat dark spots and blemishes!
Without doubt are potatoes great inside _ out!
BUTTER
If consumed in small amounts, butter is a source of CLA, conjugated linoleic acid which is an omega 6 fatty acid but much healthier than trans fats found in margarines!
Butyrate is a short chain fatty acid which has anti-inflammatory properties and supports brain health. Butter is one of the best sources of butyrate.
Grass fed cows tend to produce butter with a better fatty acid profile.
On the other hand, being a saturated fat, moderation is the key and a blend of butter or ghee (clarified butter) along with other unsaturated oils, peanut butter, avocado, oilseeds is the best manner.
CASHEWNUTS
Most of us are partial to walnuts and almonds, amongst the other members of the nut family. As a dietician, i am often asked if eating cashews is permitted! I am a firm believer of no superfoods! Every food has its own nutritional benefits and i encourage variation.
Cashews are actually lower in calories than walnuts and actually contain more protein and less fat than walnuts!
But walnuts contain more vitamin E and antioxidants and are associated with lower heart disease risk.
Moderation is emphasized as overeating nuts can add unnecessary calories and fat grams to your daily allowance!
GRAPES
Grapes contain natural sugar, but they are considered a low GI (glycemic index) food. This means that a single serving is unlikely to raise your blood sugar significantly!
Grapes are good souces of polyphenols (antioxidants) which help your body fight against free radical damage and support a healthier heart, eye and retinal health, memory and protection against Alzheimer’s disease and help regulate bowels.
Washing them thoroughly before consumption will help reduce the pesticide residue.
I hope you found this information useful. If you did, it may be worthwhile to share it amongst friends and family!
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