Do I need to eat ancient grains? What’s wrong with modern grains?
What’s so good about fermented foods?
Am I missing out because I don’t want to pay for organic fruit and vegetables?
Green smoothies aren’t that tasty. Do I need one a day?
Is cow’s milk evil?
Surely I’m superman given all the superfoods I eat…
The Dietitian’s Association of Australia released a media statement regarding the top nutrition trends to follow as the weather warms and we all try shift from the winter nutrition doldrums.
Trend: Ancient Grains
Promoted Benefit
More nutritious than commonly-used grains such as wheat, oats, rice and barley
Facts
Choose “wholegrain” rather than white or refined to maximise fibre, vitamin and mineral intake. Both ancient and the more common grains are a fine choice, the more variety the better.
Trend: Green smoothies
Promoted Benefit
Contain superfoods and extra vegetables
Facts
A great way to increase fruit and veg intake. Include the pulp and skin to maximise nutrient intake. Be careful, it’s easier to drink calories than if you were eating the whole foods. You may find the un-juiced food more satisfying. Aim for 2 pieces of fruit and 5 serves of vegetables in your food intake each day.
Trend: Milk alternatives such as almond, rice and soy milk
Promoted Benefit
Improve cholesterol levels and help with weight management
Facts
Research suggests there are bioactive components in dairy foods (such as cow’s milk) that provide health benefits. Cow’s milk also provides calcium and protein. Non-cow’s milk can be suitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance but try to find a variety that is fortified with calcium for optimal nutrition, particularly bone health.
Trend: Fermented vegetables such as sauerkraut and kimchee
Promoted Benefit
Increase friendly gut bacteria by producing probiotics through the fermentation process
Facts
In most people the correct balance of friendly bacteria is maintained in the digestive system by eating a variety of healthy foods such as fruit and vegetables, legumes, wholegrain breads and cereals. The balance of gut bacteria can be affected by illness, medications, inactivity and poor eating habits. Eating these foods may be of benefit and will certainly assist you in reaching the recommended 5 serves of vegetables each day.
Trend: Superfoods
Promoted Benefit
Contain high levels of particularly beneficial nutrients
Facts
There is no one food that can sustain us on its own or prevent health problems – we need a variety to provide the body with everything it needs. Aim to eat a wide variety of healthy foods across and within the food groups. A variety of colours = a variety of nutrients.
Trend: Misshapen fruits and vegetables
Promoted Benefit
Cheap and quirky
Facts
Provided they are fresh, the imperfect picks contain just as much flavour and nutrition and other fruit. Choosing imperfect picks is an affordable way to help you meet your fruit and veg intake and can help reduce food waste.
Trend: Organic Foods
Promoted Benefit
More nutritious than conventionally grown produce.
Facts
Both organic and conventionally-grown foods can be part of a healthy, balanced diet. The nutritional value is no different. Personal preference may see you choose one or the other based on taste, environmental concerns, cost and availability.