Did you know that some healthy foods may not be good for you? Read on to see healthy staples that are sometimes anti-nutritional foods.
Many believe that healthy foods are good for everyone, but that isn’t always the case. Some of us may be especially sensitive to certain foods, which can lead to silent inflammation in our bodies.
It’s important to remember that no one diet fits all, and we need to eat a balanced diet of foods (yes, even healthy ones) in moderation. We are all different and our bodies react, break down and absorb foods differently, based on individualized factors such as the good vs. bad bacteria in our digestive tract, how the particular food was manufactured, whether the product is organic or conventional and whether it’s loaded with genetically modified organisms (GMOs) or not.
Before you go ahead and stock up on the latest and greatest superfoods, be sure to do your homework. Here are five foods that, depending on your physiology, you may want to think twice about putting onto your plate.
Canola Oil
Problem Like all vegetable oils, canola oil is highly refined, bleached and processed. Modern oil processing involves high temperatures or chemicals of questionable safety, according to the Weston A. Price Foundation.
Solution It’s better to use coconut oil for high heat cooking and extra-virgin olive oil for salads. Be sure to check the labels on your salad dressings, too.
Agave Nectar
Problem Agave nectar is about 40 percent sweeter than sugar, but many doctors say it’s worse than high fructose corn syrup. Agave nectar is highly processed, highly addictive and has no nutritional value.
Solution Use organic honey or pure maple syrup when you’re in need of a sweetener.
Peanut Butter
Problem Peanuts, even organic ones, are high in mold, which can worsen a vast array of health issues such as stomach issues, sinus problems and brain fog. They’re also not actually nuts; peanuts are legumes, which is why those following the Paleo diet do not eat them. They may also cause stomach issues, and the mold and fungus can have other negative effects on our body’s organs.
Solution Instead of peanut butter, choose almond butter. Be sure to read the label; the only ingredient you need to see is almonds. Many brands add processed oils, refined salt and sugar to nut butters for flavor. Add your own sea salt, honey or pure maple syrup if your nut butter needs more flavor.
Kale
Problem Kale is considered a goitrogenic food just like cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower, meaning it may affect the thyroid, especially for those with compromised thyroid function, if eaten or juiced raw.
Solution It may be best to cook kale, or choose to eat and cook other leafy greens such as collard greens and Swiss chard.
Soy
Problem Unless it’s USDA-certified organic, soy is one of the most genetically engineered crops—along with corn—therefore, it’s best to avoid conventional soy as well as all forms of conventionally processed soy such as soy milk, soy yogurt and soy cheese.
Solution Stick to USDA-certified organic soy. Or, as a substitute, try soaking raw cashews and then puree them in your food processor for a creamy consistency, and add to desserts and soups.