Have you ever
seen the website ads that say, “Never eat these foods.”? If you did click on those ads or did a web
search for “never eat these foods,” you might be surprised to find just how
many foods different people say we shouldn’t eat. Recently I found information
from the Ohio State University Extension program that helped put this question
into perspective. The article pointed out that the official position of the
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the professional organization of registered
dietitians, is that any food can fit into a healthful diet. Its list of “foods
to avoid” is nonexistent, unless you have allergies or other sensitivities to
consider.
In fact, the
academy states in a 2013 position paper, “Some health and nutrition
professionals and many ‘pseudo-experts’ promote specific types of foods to
choose or avoid. A more responsible and effective approach is to help consumers
understand and apply the principles of healthy diet and lifestyle choices.”
Targeting
certain foods as “bad” can be counter-productive. It encourages black-and-white
thinking, which only offers a sense of control as long as a person avoids foods
on the “bad” list. Too often, people eventually succumb to temptation, leading
them to spiral out of control.
Instead of
“never eat these foods,” registered dietitians prefer to encourage thoughtful
decisions such as “I can occasionally enjoy a small portion,” or “No, I won’t
indulge today.” Helping people, especially those trying to lose weight, to make
moderate food choices is a more sustainable approach to healthful eating than
giving them lists of “good” and “bad” foods.
But, just to
satisfy your curiosity, just what foods are on those “do not eat” lists? It
really depends on who’s writing them. Some list specific food or restaurant
items that are much higher in calories, sugar, sodium or fat than you might
realize. Some list foods that can cause spikes in blood sugar -- including
fruit juice and, yes, bananas, which can offer health benefits. Others list
broad categories of foods such as bread and pasta, processed foods, or foods
made with genetically modified crops.
The
authors of such lists often cite studies to support their arguments. But is it
science or pseudo-science? It’s often difficult for consumers to tell the
difference. That’s why it’s important to look for reliable sources to help you
evaluate such questions. The academy is
a good place to start. Check its website at http://eatright.org .
You
can also join us at our upcoming Path to the Plate and Grilling workshops on
April 27 and May 4. One of goals is to
alleviate unsubstantiated fears about the food supply in addition to the
wonderful opportunity to gain new ideas for the upcoming grilling season.
Generous samples of grilled meats, vegetables and fruits will be provided.
Contact the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service- Wise County office at
940/627-3341 for more information.
