Have you ever heard of the American diet? If you haven’t, the most important things to know are: first, it’s not generally spoken of in a positive light, and second, that there’s a good reason for that. The American diet is characterized by foods that have high caloric values but relatively low nutrient density. Some other cultures, by comparison, have proven to get a few things right about the makeup of the foods they eat.
Healthy Fats
Fats have gotten a bad rap for a while, but the truth is far more nuanced than simply fats being bad. While some fats are unhealthy, other fats can be quite beneficial when consumed in moderation. Some other cultures do a pretty good job of making use of healthier fats like olive oil. The Mediterranean and Nordic diets are well known for this. Other healthy fats can be found in avocados, nuts and seeds, whole eggs, and fatty fish.
More Fish
Speaking of fish, there are more reasons than simply their fat content to include them in your diet. They also have important nutrients that your body needs to be healthy. The phosphorus in fatty fishes protects the enamel on your teeth. They are also a source of vitamin D, which helps you absorb and retain both calcium and phosphorus. Mediterranea, Nordic, and Asian diets all tend to feature fish more prominently than beef.
An Emphasis on Plants
Plants contain an abundance of essential nutrients. Vitamins, minerals, fiber, carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein can all be found in different fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, and legumes. This is why plant-based diets can be so beneficial. An emphasis on these food sources can be found in the Mediterranean, Nordic, and Asian diets. Make no mistake, there is certainly a place for red meats and other animal proteins in a healthy diet. The problem is that most Americans tend to overindulge in them, which can have a negative impact on health.
It’s worth mentioning that in this case, a diet refers to a sustainable eating pattern, rather than a crash or fad diet. There can be a real benefit to turning to other cultures for inspiration on how and what to eat when it comes to getting a diet right. The focus on healthy fats, fish, and plants can greatly increase the nutritional value of the foods you consume. This can lead to more energy and support better health. Now isn’t that worth making some dietary adjustments for?
Check out this article on signs you need to change your diet!
