It might seem like the ‘nutritional goal posts’ are always moving on you. One minute it’s okay to eat something, the next it’s on the no-go list. Science and research are constantly updating our views on food and healthy eating, and sometimes it’s hard to keep up. So, we’ve done the hard work for you by consulting three respected nutritionists on some of the latest ‘trending’ food topics.
Toni Gerdelan, @whole_food_nutritionista
Which food trends of 2016 can you get behind?
Fermented foods are high on my list due to their amazing role in gut healing and health. “Souping” is a great alternative to smoothies in winter, especially when our bodies are craving a little more warmth and substance. Plus, beetroots – from juice to powder to fresh beetroot, and if you are buying a bunch don’t throw away the leaves as they are amazing in salads, stir fries and smoothies.
What’s the deal with fat?
Without healthy fats our skin suffers (think premature wrinkles) and our hormones hit the skids (think stress, weight gain, low energy, menstrual complications). Please don’t be hating on good fats, they are a vital component of a healthy diet in moderation. My favourite fats are macadamia oil, coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, raw nuts, seeds and avocados.
What’s your take on coconut oil?
Coconut oil is a unique oil as it is a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT). It is touted as a weight loss food, and the reason for this is that MCTs are metabolised differently: they go straight to the liver where they can be used as an instant source of energy, and are less likely to be stored as fat.
What are your thoughts on snacking?
If you are hungry between meals, snacking is a great way to stabilise your blood sugar levels. Mindful snacking can prevent you from making unwise food choices, due to being hungry and reaching for the first available (often unhealthy) thing to stuff in your mouth. Think fruit, chopped up veggies, healthy dips and soups or smoothies.
See more from Toni:
Laura Sitter, @laurasitternutrition
What’s the deal with fat?
Never fear fat, but be wary of the type of fat you are eating. Good fats are monounsaturated fats such as those found in avocado, nuts and olive oil and polyunsaturated fats found in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel and tuna as well as nuts and flaxseed. Steer clear of trans and saturated fats as they clog the arteries, increase inflammation in the body and coincide with weight gain and obesity. These fats are found in processed foods.
How about cutting out gluten?
Cutting out anything completely from your diet should not be taken lightly. Gluten exists in many foods that have significant health benefits such as barley, oats, rye. All of which provide nutrients, including protein, fibre and B vitamins.
What are your thoughts on snacking?
The first thing I would be asking myself is “are my main meals full of enough nutrients to sustain me and keep me fuller for longer”. Having one piece of toast at breakfast for example, is not going to provide as much satiety as a bowl of oats with some seeds and berries and a dollop of natural yoghurt. I think it’s about listening to your body as well. Are you really hungry for that pack of crisps or are you just bored at your desk?
See more from Laura:
Teresa Boyce, @thehealthwhisperer
Which food trends of 2016 can you get behind?
My favourite trends include fermented foods and probiotics, more foods with less sugar and full fat dairy recommendations. The trend I am most wary of is the genetically engineered meat concept. I agree with the souping over juicing recommendation, eating all foods in their entirety is the way to go.
What’s your take on coconut oil?
I have rambled on about the health benefits over many blogs and all of my patients know I love coconut oil as a source of dietary fat. The health benefits associated with coconuts include improved digestion and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins; powerful antioxidants and antiviral constituents; anti-aging properties; not easily stored as fat; and may enhance weight loss due to the positive effect on metabolism.
How about cutting out gluten?
There is no negative impact on cutting out gluten from your diet. Gluten is simply a protein found in certain grains including wheat, spelt and rye. Those with celiac disease have an actual allergy to gluten making them very unwell when they consume foods containing it. Everybody is different and it is up to the individual to listen to their body to work out what foods works for them.
See more from Teresa:
You May Also Like
Latest Posts
