Food is a topic that has forever been debated. People have different views on what food is healthy and what isn’t. Some foods are the subject of heated debates, yet they have been found to prevent chronic diseases.
Here are some of the foods that stir up controversy, yet prevent chronic diseases:.
Fruit Juice
Fruit juice has been a topic of controversy for a long time. Some people believe that it is healthy, while others feel that it is just a sugar bomb. The truth is that it is a bit of both.
Juice has a lot of sugar in it, but it also has essential nutrients that are missing from the average diet. Juices like orange juice are high in vitamin C, which is essential for preventing chronic diseases like scurvy and heart disease. As such, drinking fruit juice in moderation can be a part of a healthy diet.
Red Meat
The debate about whether red meat is healthy or not has been going on for a long time. Some people believe that consuming red meat leads to heart diseases and cancer, while others think it is a good source of protein.
The truth is that red meat should never be completely avoided or eaten in large quantities. It is high in protein, which makes it necessary for building muscle, and also has various essential nutrients. However, it is advisable to limit the consumption of red meat and choose lean cuts that are lower in fat.
This way, you could enjoy its health benefits to a reasonable extent and prevent chronic diseases like anemia.
Coffee
Another food that has been debated for years is coffee. Some think that it is harmful to the body while others think it has numerous health benefits.
Coffee contains caffeine, which is an essential compound that helps to increase alertness and concentration. It also has antioxidants that help to prevent heart diseases and other chronic diseases. However, indulging too much in it may have side effects like insomnia and anxiety. Therefore, it is recommendable to consume coffee in moderation.
Eggs
Eggs are another food that has been caught up in controversy. Some people believe that they raise cholesterol levels in the body while others think that they are a source of protein and essential nutrients.
Research, however, shows that eggs do not harm the heart. Instead, they are a good source of protein and have essential vitamins and minerals. Therefore, consuming eggs in moderation is advisable.
Dark Chocolate
The benefits of dark chocolate are often overstated. It has been found out that chocolate improves cognitive function and lowers blood pressure. However, consuming too much could lead to weight gain and other problems.
Therefore, like most foods on this list, dark chocolate should be consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.
Nuts
Nuts have been found to have numerous health benefits. They are high in protein, essential vitamins, and minerals. Studies have shown that they can reduce the risks of chronic diseases. Some common types of nuts include almonds, cashews, and walnuts.
However, nuts should be eaten in moderation because they are high in calories. An ounce a day is enough to get the full health benefits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, foods that stir up controversy amongst people often have health benefits. Red meat, fruit juice, coffee, eggs, dark chocolate, nuts are excellent examples of this.
It is important, however, to consume all foods in moderation and to avoid overindulging in them. Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly remains one of the best ways to prevent chronic diseases and to maintain optimal health.