Stop The Hate
It might surprise you to hear, but there are lots of foods that get a terrible reputation for being “unhealthy” or “fatty,” when that’s really not the case. Lots of these foods have perfectly reasonable benefits and shouldn’t be shunned for no reason.
1. Potatoes
Everyone dismissed potatoes as unhealthy, always praising sweet potatoes in their place. They call potatoes a bad carb, but in reality, potatoes are full of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. Their association with weight gain is case-dependent, as in some, they helps stimulate a feeling of fullness. In fact, baked and boiled potatoes can help regulate blood sugar and keep you feeling sated for longer.
2. White Rice
Another food that gets a reputation as a bad carb is white rice, which is considered a refined grain with a high glycemic index. People often forget that white rice is one of the easiest-to-digest carbs out there, and in doing so, provides a great boost of energy that other foods struggle to mimic.
3. Coffee
Due to the addictive nature of coffee, as well as its ability to raise heart rates and blood pressure, many dismiss it as bad for you. However, coffee is full of antioxidants, and studies show it reduces the likelihood of developing certain neurodegenerative diseases, as it boosts mental awareness.
4. Eggs
Eggs are a hit or a miss. Some people consider them great sources of protein, while others say they have too much cholesterol and increase heart disease risk. In reality, eggs contain important nutrients for eye and brain health and are relatively safe to consume if you’re healthy.
5. Salt
People dismiss salt as the bane of the Earth, associating it with high blood pressure and unhealthy fried foods. But sodium is necessary for life; it’s a key electrolyte that provides hydration and nerve function. Without a balance of salts, the human body really struggles.
6. White Bread
Another carbohydrate that is villainized for its refined grain and processing is white bread. While whole wheat bread may be a better choice, it doesn’t make white bread all bad. After all, white bread is full of vitamin B and aids in digestion, making it an integral part of balanced diets.
7. Butter
Butter is considered high in saturated fats and is said to propagate heart disease, but in reality, butter contains fat-soluble vitamins and provides a much-needed energy boost. Besides, the natural fats in butter are better for you than the processed alternatives found in margarine or other substitutes.
8. Steaks
Red meat has also been linked to heart issues, but that’s only in excess. While you may want to avoid certain meats and cooking habits, a lean steak by itself has plenty of health benefits, as it prevents anemia and serves as high-quality protein.
9. Avocadoes
Environmental issues of avocados aside, they’re one of the healthiest sources of monounsaturated fats out there. While they may be high in calories, these calories are linked to supporting heart health and brain function, and they make you feel full for longer, which is great for weight loss.
10. Whole Milk
With so many alternative milks to choose from, many people avoid whole milk because of its association with weight gain and high fat content. But these people forget that full-fat dairy actually helps with weight management and has been linked to better heart health.
11. Pork
Some consider pork a complex meat with lots of negative associations, from its fat content to the pig’s unhygienic behaviors. However, lean pork can be as healthy as chicken and also provides key nutrients like zinc, iron, and thiamine.
12. Shellfish
Crabs, lobsters, and shrimp get a bad reputation for being high in cholesterol, but in reality, they have minimal impact on blood cholesterol in most people. In fact, they carry anti-inflammatory nutrients that make them a great addition to most diets.
13. Corn
Corn is certainly one of the densest vegetables around and is often associated with high-fructose corn syrup—the bane of the average grocery shopper’s existence. However, whole corn is not only nutritious, but it bolsters energy and eye health.
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14. Peanut Butter
Many people understand peanut butter’s key role as a healthy topping, but others may still be on the fence due to its high level of calories and fats. However, in its natural form, peanut butter is both heart-healthy and nutrient-dense, making it a must-have.
15. Pasta
While white pasta may offer very little in terms of benefits, whole-grain pasta is a great source of sustained energy and fiber. Many people worry about pasta spiking blood sugar and forget that it offers B vitamins and is a great vehicle for protein and veggies alike.
16. Mayo
If you look through the ingredients that go into mayo, you may immediately dismiss it as unhealthy. But in reality, quality oil and egg yolks are a great source of healthy fats if eaten in moderation.
17. Cereal
Many adults regard cereal as nothing but sugary food for kids, with little to no real benefits. But if you buy whole-grain or healthy cereals, you’ll find it makes for a perfectly balanced breakfast, helping you get in vitamins and nutrients alike.
18. Cheese
Cheese is known for being high in fats and calories, but it can actually improve bone health and is said to benefit the gut when eaten in moderation. Just pace yourself, and feel free to enjoy cheese in your meals.
19. Gluten
With so many gluten-free diets around, many people dismiss it as some horrible thing, when in reality, it’s just a protein found in wheat. Unless you have gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, consuming this protein boosts energy, provides fiber, and imparts vitamin B.
20. Frozen Food
Many people consider frozen food to be less than fresh food, especially due to processing and whatnot. However, some foods, like fruits and vegetables, are better frozen than fresh. This is because they can be frozen at their peak ripeness, making them accessible and affordable all year long.
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