Foods Categorized as ‘Unhealthy’ That are Actually Good for your Health
Crash dieters have demonized the potatoes, eggs and fat spreads for quite sometime. But according to Nutritional Science lecturer at King's College London, Scott Harding, he re-evaluates the healthy diet "villains" and argues that they are actually not as bad as they are thought to be.
Eggs have taken a beating for all these years, accused of being bad for your heart. 185mg dietary cholesterol in present in eggs is considered to augment blood cholesterol levels. However, research in the last 20 years suggest that regular intake of dietary cholesterol has very little influence. Nutrition experts even recommend eggs as a necessary source of vitamins, minerals, proteins and healthy fats.
Margarine, popularized in mid 19th century was touted as a healthy substitute to butter as it made of vegetable fats, with health professionals endorsing its benefits over regular butter. As the number of people suffering from coronary heart disease reduced, margarine stuck in the market for good. However, researchers insist that for margarine to be considered safe, users have to ensure that it does not contain "partially hydrogenated vegetable oil."
Potatoes are treated as unhealthy vegetables because of its high glycemic index. But when consumed in right quantities, potatoes can make up for your body's requirement of carbohydrates, vitamin C, vitamin B and trace minerals.
Milk, butter, yogurt, cheese and other forms of dairy were once staple diet of many people. Since dairy products contain high amounts of protein and calcium, they can be consumed regularly as far as it is in reasonable quantities.
Many dieters will advice you to prevent nuts if you are trying to lose weight because they are high in calories and fats. But research shows that raw nuts are instrumental for healthy diet and to also maintain body weight. Rich in protein and healthy fats, they can be an excellent snack on the go.
While all these foods are packed with great health benefits, the trick lies in moderation. Mr. Harding concludes: "All foods fit into a healthy diet. Don't fall into the trap of believing in 'superfoods' or 'food villains'. Enthusiastic consumption of one particular 'superfood' can be worse than consuming a so-called 'food villain'."
