Healthy Cooking Pitfalls
By Sara Butler
Most people know that a truly healthy meal is one cooked at home, which is why so many people interested in eating a healthy and balanced diet control it through their own kitchen. But even good intentions can sometimes go awry. Cooking at home can be healthy, but only if these major mistakes can be avoided.
Using Oil in Pasta Water
It’s not uncommon to add a little extra virgin olive oil to boiling water to keep the pasta from sticking together or to the bottom of the pot. The only thing adding oil to the pasta water actually accomplishes is making it more difficult for the sauce to stick to your pasta. It also has the unfortunate side effect of stripping some of the nutrients from the pasta and adding calories.
To keep it healthy, add a little bit of salt to the boiling water and stir frequently to keep it from sticking together.
Counting Calories by Counting Fat
Olive oil and margarine are not equals, and shouldn’t be counted as such. If you’re trying to cut down on fat by using “low fat” options such margarine, remember that margarine is loaded with highly processed, unhealthy fats. Butter and olive oil are pretty equal when it comes to calories and are far better for your health. Use one of them in moderation instead of trying to cut down on calories by using something else.
Peeling Fruits and Vegetables
Peeling the skin from fruits and vegetables cuts down on the nutrients. A lot of produce holds essential nutrients such as Vitamin C, just below the skin. Plus, there are all kinds of healthy fiber in that skin that will keep you feeling fuller for longer! Resist the urge to peel in order to get the most from the fruits and vegetables you’re eating. The only exceptions are things such as onions, citrus fruits, and bananas.
Frugal on Flavor
Meals that are nutritious can be anything but bland. Many spices and herbs offer flavor and benefits to health by using them with abandon. So don’t be afraid to add them to your meal, just remember to go easy on the salt!
Cooking healthy at home is a great thing, but don’t fall victim to these common mistakes and sabotage the benefits you’re trying to reap!
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.