To Your Health: Nutrition

The food guide is not just about what you put in your mouth anymore. Over the past several years the food guide has taken a more holistic approach toward healthy eating habits. The guide puts emphasis on things like mindfulness while eating and slowing down when at the table. It also talks about the importance of the social aspects of eating. Cooking and eating with others as well as passing along cultural traditions through food are excellent ways of forming better habits with food.

These recommendations seem simple enough but what about all the new information that comes at you every day? Food crazes are always changing, from the popularity of goji berries and pomegranates in the early 2000’s to the rise of Kale and fermented food in recent years, food trends and what is considered healthy or even a superfood always seem to be changing, but what even is a superfood?

“It is actually defined in Webster’s dictionary, but in terms of scientific designation there is no such thing as a superfood,” continued Ogasawara.

Some trends that are new in the western world are providing some health benefits that many other places have known about for centuries. Plant-based proteins are increasing in popularity in recent years. Products like the impossible burger being available at popular restaurants is making it easier than ever for the average person to try plant-based alternatives to meat. Increases in awareness and accessibility of products used around the world also mean an increase of plant-based proteins in our diets. Things like Jackfruit, soybeans and lentils are now mainstays in many kitchens across Canada.

“Plant-based proteins tend to have lower amounts of certain fats that could cause problems down the road by overconsumption. Plant-based foods that are high in protein also tend to be high in fiber,” said Ogasawara.

One thing has remained true through every change to the knowledge we have about food and that is a mixture of fresh whole food and exercise is the best bet to live a healthier life.

by Thomas Doucet

To Your Health: Nutrition

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