CHECKING OUT HEALTH FOODS

Many Americans try hard to eat a healthy diet. They wonder if they need "health" foods in order to achieve optimal nutritional status. Any food marketed as improving one's health may be considered a "health" food.

These foods include organically grown produce, natural grains and cereals, and many other products free of additives. Many of the health foods available on the market today are described as free of pesticides and/or preservatives. Others may be lower in fat, higher in fiber, or fortified with select nutrients such as antioxidants.

Do you need to consume health foods in order to reap the benefits of a nutritious diet? It is doubtful. If you eat a variety of foods, as outlined in the USDA Food Guide Pyramid, and stay active, your nutritional health will be optimized. There is little data to suggest that organic foods are healthier. Certainly, the nutrient content is almost identical. The avoidance of pesticides may seem to reduce risk for chronic disease.

If you are not following a balanced diet using the recommended daily servings of foods that are low in sugar and fat and high in fiber, then organic foods you eat are of little value. Health food is better defined as any food that contributes to overall improved health status rather than only those specially labeled as such. By this definition, all of the following would be health foods:

fruits
vegetables
whole grain products including breads, cereals, pasta, and rice
low fat dairy products
lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, and nuts

Highly processed foods like candies, potato chips, French fries, pastries, and soda pop, would have a difficult time making the health food list. Avoid these kinds and any kinds of foods with trans fats (such as hydrogenated cooking oils), saturated fats, and high sodium.

The health food market has become popular among baby boomers who are concerned about aging and the health problems that may accompany the aging process. Balance, variety, and moderation with food selections are key to a healthy diet. Buying special high cost "health" foods is not necessary for eating and following a healthy nutritious meal plan.

For more information about healthy foods, visit the website sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the National Agricultural Library at www.nal.usda.gov/fnic.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File NUTR4823.rf2 VRS# 6910 Data Version 7.0