A lot of foods have a bad rep, but that’s due to the misinformation delivered around them. Moderation is the key to everything, and when properly portioned, these supposedly “bad” foods can be a wholesome addition to your diet.
1. Full fat milk
Whole milk isn’t too fatty – others may think they’re going the virtuous route with skim, but full fat milk consumers have no higher risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes than low fat consumers. Whole milk drinkers actually had an overall lower obesity rate!
2. Red Wine
Not all alcohol is bad sugars – this miracle drink is filled with resveratrol, and antioxidant which has been linked to upping levels of your good cholesterol.
3. Bread
Carbs have been a forbidden delight forever that we deprive ourselves of, but apparently, they’re not all bad, and complex ones like whole wheat can up vitamins, iron and magnesium levels.
4. Red Meat
Too much red meat will make cholesterol go through the roof. A small amount will ensure you get your fair of iron, zinc, selenium and vitamins which can only be received through red meat – unprocessed of course.
5. Potatoes
People see potatoes as a carbo-loaded starch machine, but you couldn’t be further from the truth. That being said, all is good in. Potatoes can be, thanks to their nutrient rich skin and vitamin C content, a good source of useful nutrients.
6. Fruit Juice
For years, we’ve been told to eat our fruits whole, and opt out of fruit juice for its high sugar content. However, if you do drink 100% fruit juice once in a while, it can count towards your daily dose of fruit nutrition.
7. Eggs, Yolk and All
Egg yolks have a bad rep – health freaks deny the cholesterol and choose for egg whites only, in their omelettes. But they’re missing out on the protein and nutrients in that yellow bit. Eggs actually protect heart health and increase good cholesterol.
8. Salt
We’ve all been taught that salt is the enemy and leads to high blood pressure or heart disease. But the truth is, too little sodium in the blood causes dehydration. Salt allows for seamless transmission of nerve impulses to keep cells normal, and it even reduces stress.
9. Frozen Veggies
Just because a veggie comes in the frozen aisle of the grocery store doesn’t make it any less healthy. Freezing actually helps retain nutrients while refrigerating decreases vitamin content of veggies.
10. Shellfish
From shrimp and crab to mussels and oysters, shellfish is often a concern because of high cholesterol levels. However, they are also high protein and iodine while being low in calories, yet rich in selenium, a brain boosting mineral.
