It doesn’t have to be complicated to eat healthy. However, healthy eating advice changes every day and it can be difficult to keep up. Your loved one doesn’t have to fill their cupboards with expensive “Superfoods” or swap the Sunday roast for a salad. In this article, we will address the most common food myths.
Superfoods
So, what is a Superfood? It’s a marketing term for food with supposed health benefits. They are thought to be nutritionally dense and good for one’s health. Blueberries, salmon and kale are a few examples of foods that have been given this title.
What is the myth? It’s extremely important to eat Superfoods.
What are the facts? Although we always hear that foods like spinach or broccoli are Superfoods filled with nutrients, there is no evidence to prove these foods are any better for your loved one than other fruit and vegetables.
An expert opinion: There is no legal definition for this rather unscientific marketing term. The foods promoted are no more “super” than potatoes, tomatoes or apples.
Snacks
Snacking is often used to refer to processed, high-calorie foods like crisps or biscuits. However, snacking simply means to eat or drink something between meals – regardless of whether it’s healthy or not.
What is the myth? Snacking is not good for you and will stop you from eating larger meals.
What are the facts? There is nothing wrong with having a snack in between meals, especially if you are hungry. Even so, try to pick a healthier snack instead of cakes or chocolate.
An expert opinion: Sometimes our appetite changes as we get older and we don’t always want to have a big meal. This is where snacks can be helpful. Eating regularly helps our bodies to maintain energy throughout the day, so it’s perfectly fine to get hungry every few hours.
Red Meat
What is the myth? Eating red meat is bad for you.
What are the facts? Meat is a good source of protein, vitamins and minerals but some red meats are high in saturated fats. This can contribute towards high blood cholesterol which in-turn can increase the risk of heart disease. Instead of cutting it out altogether, try cutting down the amount of red meat your loved one consumes. Why not give chicken, beans or lentils a go?
An expert opinion: Red meats can still be eaten as part of a balanced diet, but go for the leaner cuts and use healthier cooking methods such as grilling.
Fry Up for Breakfast
What is the myth? A cooked breakfast is bad for you.
What are the facts? It’s the bacon and sausages that are the culprits when it comes to fat and salt. Scrambled eggs without butter and baked beans, with reduced salt and sugar, are a healthier option when it comes to a cooked breakfast. Breakfast is an important meal of the day and a healthy cooked breakfast is always worth waking up for.
An expert opinion: Eggs are a brilliant source of lean protein, and tomatoes are packed with antioxidants. Have a think about how you cook the foods and instead of a fry up, try a grill up.
Fruit and Veg
What is the myth? Fruit and vegetables should be eaten fresh.
What are the facts? When living by yourself or with one other, it’s unrealistic to get through a variety of fresh fruit and vegetables before they go off. Buying frozen fruit and veg means that you only use what you need and there is no waste. Add frozen vegetables to soups or stews and try frozen berries with yogurt or ice cream.
An expert opinion: Freezing preserves the food’s vitamin and mineral content. This is a great way to get your recommended five-a-day and there is no wastage from peel, seeds and stalks.
Low-fat Food
What is the myth? Eating low-fat foods is best for us.
What are the facts? Many people associate the term “low-fat” with health. However, processed low-fat foods often contain a lot of sugar and other unhealthy ingredients. Some nutritious foods like fruit and vegetables are already naturally low in fat. There is no need to avoid fat altogether.
An expert opinion: We do need some fat in our diets. For example, omega fats are great for circulation and can reduce the risk of heart disease. Oily fish such as salmon and mackerel are good sources of omega fats. Use olive or sunflower oil for cooking.
Eat Healthy, Stay Healthy
These tips should help to debunk some of the common myths about eating healthy. In addition, if your loved one needs more protection at home, our Careline alarm may be what they need. You learn more in our in-depth guide, or by getting in touch with our Customer Service Team on 0800 101 3333 or via email info@careline.co.uk.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated on 28th July 2021 to reflect current information.
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