Article content
You’ve surely already heard more than one opinion about foods that are healthy only in appearance and do not bring any positive effect to your body. However, because there are many of us on this planet, opinions that refute that have also been voiced, and bad foods become good.
We present 7 foods unfairly condemned for their effects on our health.
Peanut butter
This spread not only tastes great, but can also sufficiently satiate you and help control your weight. It contains healthy fats, protein, fiber and also soothes sweet cravings. However, avoid brands “reduced-fat”! Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats have a positive significance for your body because they lower LDL cholesterol levels in the bloodstream and also reduce the risk of heart disease. Also do not consume peanut butter that contains added sugar and oils. High-fructose corn syrup and partially / fully hydrogenated oils are the main culprits, because they have addictive and harmful effects.
Egg yolk
Many people fear its high cholesterol level, but studies have shown that it is saturated fats, not cholesterol, that are responsible for worsening your heart health. Renowned dietitian Kelly Plow says they contain 3 g of protein, vitamin D, phosphorus, riboflavin, choline, selenium and a number of other vitamins and minerals. However, that does not mean you should eat yolks one after another. It is recommended to consume according to the ratio 3:1 – 3 egg whites to one yolk.
Potatoes
Is what we buy from fast food healthy? If potatoes aren’t fried, they can have positive effects on health. They contain potassium and fiber, which are essential for balancing blood sugar levels, and potato starch will sufficiently fill you up. However, if you have a choice, reach for sweet potatoes, also called yams. They are an arsenal of beta-carotene and have a higher fiber content. And you can make your favorite fries from them too. Just cut the sweet potatoes and bake them in the oven.
Avocado
This fruit (yes, avocado is a fruit) can create its own alphabet of essential vitamins – A, B, C, D, E, K. It is rich in healthy unsaturated fats and contains similar compounds to peanut butter. Make a spread from it, add it to salads or use it as a paste for pasta and you’ll also increase the absorption of phytonutrients into your body!
Coffee
Of course, coffee is not a food, but it should also have its place on this list. It is a major source of flavonoids, improves our cardiovascular health and protects cells from the adverse effects of aging. It is also suitable for athletes because it increases activity and you’ll be unstoppable during exercise! Be careful not to overdo it with it – you can become addicted. The safest amount, according to public health experts, is 3–4 cups a day.
White rice
Although it is pointed to as rice with a higher glycemic index than its brown counterpart, it may not be that bad. It is true that it undergoes more processing and thus loses many nutrients, but people who eat rice are less likely to gain weight if it is part of a balanced diet.
Popcorn
It is 100% whole grain and contains antioxidants, making it a great choice for evening munching during a good movie. 3 cups of popcorn contain only 100 calories! Leave out the butter, add a little salt and that’s it.
Regardless of how healthy foods are, if you throw them into oil, butter or roll them in sugar, you significantly reduce their nutritional value and only harm yourself. Likewise, you can’t call pizza a vegetable just because it has tomato sauce on it. However, if you prepare your food properly, your body will thank you later.
