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Checking Out Health Foods |
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Many Australians try hard to eat a healthy diet. They wonder if they need "health" foods in order to achieve optimal nutritional status. Any food marketed as improving one's health may be considered a "health" food.
These foods include organically grown produce, natural grains and cereals and many other products free of additives. Many of the health foods available on the market today are described as free of pesticides and/or preservatives. Others may be lower in fat, higher in fibre, or fortified with select nutrients such as antioxidants. Do you need to consume health foods in order to reap the benefits of a nutritious diet? It is doubtful. If you eat a variety of foods, as outlined in the Healthy Eating Pyramid, and stay active, your nutritional health will be optimised. There is little data to suggest that organic foods are healthier. Certainly, the nutrient content is almost identical. The avoidance of pesticides may seem to reduce risk for chronic disease. The more critical question is, are you consuming the 7 or more servings of fruits and vegetables recommended daily? If not, the organic ones you eat are of little concern. HEALTH FOOD is better defined as any food that contributes to overall improved health status rather than only those specially labelled as such. By this definition, all of the following would be health foods: - fruits
- vegetables
- whole grains, beans, and cereals
- low fat milk and dairy products
- lean meats and poultry
On the other hand, foods like lollies, potato chips, pastries, and soft drinks, would have a difficult time making the health food list. The health food market has become popular among baby boomers who are concerned about ageing and the health problems that may accompany the ageing process. Balance, variety, and moderation with food selections are key to a healthy diet. Buying special health foods simply adds to the cost of your food budget. Article #6910 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
