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Have you ever noticed how the word ‘healthy’ can take
on a whole bunch of different meanings, especially when it comes to
food? We are living in a society where everyone seems to have their own
meaning of ‘healthy’. Is it motivating? No. Confusing? Most definitely.
So here is a list of five common misconceptions about healthy food that
hopefully will help you put some of this confusion to rest.
‘Light’ choices are supposed to be healthier choices. Whatever ‘light’
is, whether it is low-calorie or low-fat, it doesn’t necessarily make
the food that you are about to eat healthy. First, ‘light’ foods can
still be highly processed foods. Second, the definition of ‘light’ can
be quite subjective, as, according to the FDA, it should be determined
in reference to another similar food.
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Healthy food is generally tasteless, bland and boring. Gone are the days
when healthy food was equated to a side of steamed frozen carrots and
broccoli. If this is what you are serving, then perhaps it is time to
re-think your menu. There are plenty of resources available designed to
help you create dishes that are flavorful, tasty, and rich in
nutritional value.
Healthy food comes down to vegetables that aren’t filling and have
little or no protein. If this were true, our vegan and raw food friends
would be in trouble. Vegetables represent just one food group that plays
a very important part in healthy eating. Other food groups, such as
legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and plant fats and oils, create
dishes that are not only satisfying, but balanced in nutrition and rich
in flavor.
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Food labeled low sodium, low cholesterol, or low sugar are supposed to
be healthy. Such claims have become a convenient marketing tool for food
manufacturers whose single goal is to sell their products. Similar to
misconception #1, just because something is ‘low cholesterol’, doesn’t
mean that it is better for you.
Gluten-free food is a healthier choice. Let me put it this way: unless
consumed by someone with Celiac disease or gluten
intolerance/sensitivity, gluten-free food is not going to improve your
health in any significant way. Unfortunately, the gluten-free claim is
quickly becoming just another marketing tool to sell highly processed
products that aren’t always the best choice even for those with Celiac
or gluten intolerance/sensitivity. |