We’re constantly being swamped with the latest diet trends, from lemon-detox diets to avoiding carbs after dark. But more recently, there has been a greater focus on holistic health rather than quick weight-loss fixes and with this has come the rise of ‘superfoods’ and an emphasis on nutrition rather than a diet. Now, people are turning to food to assist in treating health issues such as problems with digestion, spikes in glucose levels and autoimmune diseases. We’ve taken a look at some of the latest health food crazes to see if they are as healthy as they say, or just another fad.
Drinking Vinegar
Step aside, coconut water. Apple cider vinegar is the latest must-try in Hollywood with everyone from Heidi Klum to Megan Fox sipping the sour stuff to stay slim. It is made from fermented apples, releasing beneficial nutrients that can aid in digestive issues, hair and skin health and keeping your blood sugar levels at bay. Does it work? “Yes, but in moderation,” says dietitian Joanna McMillan. “Added to food, vinegar can help control weight and appetite. Drizzle 1 tablespoon over salads for a healthy boost.”
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Quinoa (pron: keen-wah)
Possibly the most mainstream ancient grain in the western world, quinoa originated in South America and is now seen as a must-have health staple across the globe. A naturally gluten-free seed, quinoa is high in protein and fibre, and is a slow-releasing carbohydrate, which makes it ideal for those watching their glucose levels. It is most commonly consumed in its whole form, however it can be made into flours, pastas and flakes and can be easily incorporated into sweet or savoury dishes. Quinoa contains saoptins, so to ensure you’re getting only healthy results from this super grain, make sure you rinse well before using!
This quinoa chocolate cake is a delicious way to sneak some extra goodness into your kids diet – they won’t be able to tell the difference!
Healthy fats
Fat has always been given a negative wrap in the media and in circles of people concerned with weight loss. More recently, however, there has been an increased awareness of the different types of fats and acknowledgement that some types can actually be highly beneficial for both weight-loss and overall health. We are generally advised to opt for monounsaturated fat, which is found in foods such as avocados, almonds, cashews, peanuts and polyunsaturated fat (omega-6), found in foods such as fish, sesame and sunflower seeds and some nuts. But there has been a surge in popularity surrounding coconut oil, which is full of saturated fats, the type we have always been told to avoid. Many nutritionists are now claiming that coconut oil is a healthy saturated fat, and can assist in digestion, skin and nail health and balancing hormones. While some disagree with this claim, the consumption of healthy fats can assist in keeping you fuller for longer, however eat in moderation – especially for those watching their kilojoule intake!
Activating nuts
Many celebrities, nutritionists and health conscious folk swear by activating their nuts before eating them. This activation process is done by soaking the nuts in water for a period of time, resulting in a sprouting or germination process. The nuts naturally expand, and are then dehydrated or baked at a low temperature. Believers claim soaking your nuts increases the nutrient value and assists in digestion, allowing humans to process the nuts more easily than regular nuts. However, there has been limited research done around this, and many health practitioners claim this has no benefit whatsoever. Activated nuts are available in most health food stores, often for three-times the price of non-soaked. Try it yourself and see how you feel!
Fermented foods
Europeans have consumed sauerkraut for generations for the tangy taste and acidity it adds to meat dishes, but recent research has shown that fermented foods are actually extremely beneficial for your gut-health. The fermentation process preserves food and creates beneficial enzymes, vitamins, Omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics, which have been known to aid in digestion. Fermented foods are popping up all over menus, and come in the form of sauerkraut, yoghurt, and kombucha, a fermented tea drink which happens to be completely delicious.
Here is an easy sauerkraut recipe to try: Hot dogs with sauerkraut and grueyere
Paleo eating
Commonly referred to as the ‘caveman diet’, the paleolithic diet is a lifestyle based around mimicking the food habits of our ancestors, mainly revolving around grass-fed meats and eating vegetables in their natural state. There is a strong emphasis placed on avoiding anything that was not consumed by early humans, including grains, refined sugar and legumes. The most ‘googled’ diet of 2013, paleo eating is showing no sign of slowing down, with many celebrities and health foodies endorsing this way of eating. However, many health professionals have argued against this diet, as it lacks in vital nutrients such as carbohydrates for energy and, in some cases, fibre for digestive health. Following a paleo diet is also extremely pricey, with emphasis placed on the importance of buying good quality meats, vegetables and organic plant-based oils.
Going gluten-free
It seems that with the rise of focus on nutrition in the media has come an increased awareness of food allergies and intolerances. Every day, Australians are being diagnosed with Coeliac disease, and discovering that consuming wheat, dairy and other food groups can cause tummy troubles or discomfort. However, avoiding gluten is becoming more mainstream and there is a increasing range of wheat-free products available. Gluten-free is seen by many as being the healthy option, and many cafes and restaurants will now advertise that they cater for gluten-free diets. However, often GF alternatives will be loaded up with sugar to compensate for the lack of flavour and texture that come from regular wheat blends, in some cases significantly raising the kilojoule count. There are still die-hard believers in ditching the grains, but see what works for your body – there’s no reason why a big bowl of oats isn’t great for some of us!
We have 10 indulgent gluten-free cakes for you here
Raw desserts
They initially started in the vegan health food scene, with individuals wanting to recreate their favourite desserts that are often loaded with dairy and refined flours and sugars. Now raw treats have become a popular trend popping up everywhere from regular neighbourhood cafes, to health food stores, and hipster hang-outs. The base of the dessert is usually made from a combination of ground nuts and seeds, with a filling created from soaked cashew nuts or some form of nut butter with a blend of coconut oil. Highly nutritionally dense, one slice of raw ‘cheese’ cake can add up to around 1700kJ per serving. If you are focused on losing weight, it’s important to make these treats a ‘sometimes’ foods. But it does prompt the question, are all calories created equally?
Green smoothies
If you’ve never heard of a green smoothie, then you’ve probably been living under a rock for the past couple of years. Green smoothies are becoming more mainstream everyday, with many restaurants and cafes incorporating them into their standard drinks menu and many people making them at home for a healthy breakfast or light afternoon snack. Basically, they’re a fruit smoothie with a handful of green leaves tossed in, usually in the form of kale or spinach. Health conscious individuals hold them very highly, but it all comes down to the ingredients you’re putting in your blender. Sure, they’re a great way to get your greens in – just make sure you’re not adding too much to cancel out the good stuff!
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