Which foods are good for you?

When we talk about healthy food, it's not just about listing the best foods, but about understanding why variety is the key to a balanced diet. It's easy to be misled by concepts like "superfoods" and the idea that a single food can solve health problems. In reality, healthy eating is about giving the body the building blocks and nutrients it needs through a combination of different foods.

Misconceptions about Superfoods

Frequently asked questions such as "What should I eat to cure a headache?" or "Which is the healthiest food?". But foods are not medicines. They should not be seen as treatments for specific ailments, but as fuel for the body. Focusing only on individual foods gives an incorrect picture of what food is actually supposed to do. Instead, we should look at the diet as a whole and how different foods together can give us a healthy balance.

Natural Foods and Processing

Another important aspect is the understanding of the concept of "natural foods". Just because something is labeled natural doesn't mean it's automatically healthy. Many "natural" products are still heavily processed and may contain large amounts of sugar or other additives. Keep that in mind the next time you pass the "natural" shelf in the store!

The Most Important Categories of Healthy Food

Instead of talking about specific foods, let's discuss the main categories that contribute to a healthy diet.

1. Non-Starchy Vegetables

Vegetables that are not high in starch, such as green leafy vegetables, broccoli and cauliflower, are great because they are rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber, but low in carbohydrates. Learn which vegetables have less than 5% carbs and eat plenty of them.

2. Bear

Berries are the best fruits to eat because they contain the lowest sugar and highest fiber. Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries are particularly nutritious.

3. Animal Proteins

Meat and fish are an important source of protein and provide all the necessary amino acids. In particular, grass-fed meat and wild-caught fish such as salmon are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

4. Eggs

Eggs from free-range hens, which have been allowed to live a natural life, are rich in nutrients. The yolks from such hens are deep orange, which is a sign of high quality.

5. Chains and Oils

Natural fats such as organic butter, olive oil and coconut oil are excellent sources of energy and nutrients, as long as they are minimally processed.

6. Nuts

Macadamia nuts, pecans and walnuts are rich in healthy fats and nutrients. Eat them in moderation to benefit from their high fiber content.

7. Seeds

Chia seeds, flax seeds and pumpkin seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and protein, making them an excellent addition to your diet.

8. Avocado

Avocado is a nutrient-dense food that contains healthy fats and fiber. It is versatile and can be eaten in many different ways.

9. Root vegetables

Root vegetables such as sweet potatoes and carrots can be a good source of carbohydrates for those who do not need to avoid starches, but they should be eaten in moderation.

10. Herbs and Spices

Garlic, ginger, turmeric and cinnamon are examples of herbs and spices that not only provide flavor but also contain powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances.

Bonus: Dark Chocolate

Life also needs a little indulgence, and dark chocolate can be a good choice. The higher the cocoa content, the better, as it means less sugar and more nutrients from the cocoa beans. Aim for chocolate with at least 78% cocoa.

Summary

A healthy diet is about variety and choosing foods that naturally support the body's needs. By focusing on a balanced diet full of vegetables, berries, protein and healthy fats, you can give your body everything it needs without focusing on trends or "superfoods".