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Popular foods that were considered terrible for your health in the last decade
The Health and Wellness Market Boom
The health and wellness market has experienced a significant boom over the past decade, with projections that it will exceed $811 billion by 2021 (Statista). The lure of magical superfoods that promise increased energy, weight loss and overall well-being has captivated consumers, who are constantly on the lookout for the latest trends in healthy eating.
While this decade has seen the rise of many healthy foods, it has also revealed the truth behind some popular foods that were initially thought to be beneficial to our health. Contrary to our expectations, some of these foods have turned out to be significantly less healthy than previously thought. In this article, we will explore some of these popular foods and the reasons why they have been deemed terrible for our health.
Juice and Juice Cleanses: Not as beneficial as we thought
Juice has been a staple beverage for centuries, with references to its consumption even found in ancient texts such as the Dead Sea Scrolls. However, recent research has shed light on the downsides of excessive juice consumption. A 2019 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that the sugar content in fruit juice makes it just as bad for you as soda. In fact, each 12-ounce serving of fruit juice, including 100 percent all-natural fruit juice, was associated with an 11 percent higher risk of death in men aged 45 and older.
In addition, the popularity of juice cleanses, often touted as a way to detoxify and rejuvenate the body, has been called into question. Health experts have stated that there is no scientific data to support the efficacy of juice cleanses. These cleanses often remove the fiber from fruits and vegetables, leaving behind sugary water that lacks the satiating effect of fiber. As a result, individuals who rely on juice cleanses may experience hunger shortly after consuming them, leading to overeating and possible weight gain.
Coconut Oil: High in Saturated Fat
Coconut oil gained immense popularity between 2011 and 2015, thanks to celebrity endorsements and its association with trendy diets like keto and paleo. But despite its initial reputation as a “miracle food,” coconut oil has been found to be dangerously high in saturated fat. It contains 90 percent saturated fat, compared to 64 percent for butter and 40 percent for lard. Excessive consumption of saturated fat raises levels of bad cholesterol and increases the risk of heart disease.
In fact, a Harvard professor famously called coconut oil “pure poison” in a viral video lecture in 2018. While some people still advocate for the moderate use of coconut oil, many people have reconsidered its place in their diets and are opting to use it sparingly.
Gluten-free foods: Not necessarily healthier
Gluten-free diets have gained popularity among non-celiacs as a perceived healthy choice. However, eliminating gluten does not automatically equate to weight loss or improved health. In fact, many gluten-free products on the market contain higher amounts of sugar and calories than their gluten-containing counterparts. In addition, processed gluten-free foods often contain cheap GMO grains and unhealthy fillers, which can undermine their nutritional value.
While a gluten-free diet is essential for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, the science on its benefits for the general population is still inconclusive. It is important to approach gluten-free products with caution and to choose whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible.
Egg whites vs. whole eggs
For years, egg whites have been touted as a healthier alternative to whole eggs due to their lower cholesterol content. However, recent studies have debunked the myth that egg whites are inherently healthier. Dietary cholesterol from eggs has been found to have a minimal effect on blood cholesterol levels for the majority of people. In fact, most people can safely eat up to one whole egg a day without increasing their risk of heart disease or stroke.
This revelation is good news for those who enjoy the taste and texture of whole eggs. Egg white omelets, once popularized as a low-cholesterol option, may now be seen as unnecessarily restrictive and lacking in flavor.
The whole grain dilemma
Whole grains have gained recognition for their higher nutrient content and association with a reduced risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. However, not all products labeled “whole grain” are created equal. A study conducted by researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health found that many foods with a whole grain stamp were higher in calories and sugar than similar products without the stamp. Their recommendation is to look for a ratio of total carbohydrates to fiber of 10 to 1 or less to ensure that the food is truly healthy.
Consumers should be wary of misleading marketing claims and choose whole grains in their unprocessed form whenever possible, such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread, rather than relying on processed foods that may contain added sugars and unhealthy additives.
Bottom line
As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of nutrition and dietary trends, it is important to stay informed about the latest research and findings regarding popular foods. The past decade has taught us that not all foods marketed as healthy are truly beneficial to our well-being. Juices and juice cleanses, coconut oil, gluten-free products, egg whites, and even some whole grains have been shown to be not as healthy as first thought.
By critically evaluating the nutritional content and scientific evidence behind food claims, we can make more informed choices about what we consume. It is important to prioritize whole, unprocessed foods and maintain a balanced diet that meets our individual nutritional needs. Remember, the key to a healthy lifestyle is moderation, variety and a foundation of evidence-based knowledge.
FAQS
No, not all juices are equally bad for you. While fruit juices, even 100% natural ones, can be high in sugar and associated with health risks, it’s important to distinguish between whole fruit juices and processed juices. Whole fruit juices, which retain the fiber content of the fruit, are generally healthier options than processed juices, which lack fiber and contain added sugars.
Should I cut coconut oil out of my diet completely?
While coconut oil is high in saturated fat and should be consumed in moderation, it doesn’t have to be completely eliminated from your diet. Moderation is key, and it’s recommended that you choose healthier fats such as olive oil or avocado oil as your primary source of dietary fat. Using coconut oil sparingly as a flavor enhancer or for specific culinary purposes can still be enjoyed within a balanced diet.
Are all gluten-free foods a healthier alternative?
Not all gluten-free foods are automatically healthier choices. Many gluten-free products on the market contain higher amounts of sugar, unhealthy fillers, and processed ingredients than their gluten-containing counterparts. It’s important to read labels and choose gluten-free options made with whole, unprocessed ingredients to ensure a healthier choice.
Are egg whites healthier than whole eggs?
No, egg whites are not inherently healthier than whole eggs. While egg whites are lower in cholesterol, the dietary cholesterol found in whole eggs has been shown to have a minimal effect on blood cholesterol levels for most people. It’s generally safe for most people to eat up to one whole egg a day without increasing their risk of heart disease or stroke.
Are all whole grains equally healthy?
Not all whole grains are created equal. Some products labeled “whole grain” may still contain added sugars, unhealthy additives, and higher calorie content. It’s important to look for foods with a favorable total carbohydrate-to-fiber ratio of 10 to 1 or less, and to choose whole grains in their unprocessed forms, such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole grain bread, whenever possible.