Real Foods
Let’s get REAL… foods! There are copious benefits from purchasing, preparing and consuming real foods in their whole or natural form. Real foods are usually unprocessed, free of chemical additives and rich in nutrients. How can you tell if it’s a real food? We define real foods as single-ingredient items. Take for example, an apple. In its most whole form, it is directly from the tree with a stem still sitting on top. Apples are also found in other processed varieties including applesauce, apple juice, apple butter, etc. Although those items can still provide nutritional value, the original apple is by-far the best option for optimal health. This same concept applies to other fruits, vegetables, beans, legumes, grains and so on.
Over time our society has shifted away from whole foods and turned to processed, ready-to-eat meals and supplements. It’s officially time to return to our roots. To further this point, here are a few specific reasons why we at Simple Eats MKE prepare all our recipes from scratch using whole foods!
Vitamins & Minerals
Real, unprocessed foods are a primary source of essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which prevent a wide range of chronic diseases.
Fiber
Whole foods are often full of fiber! Fiber gives you that sense of satiety, not to mention aids in regulating blood sugar and feeds your microbiota which promotes a healthy digestive system.
Immune Function
The antioxidants and phytochemicals in whole foods boost your immune system and help protect your cells from inflammation and damaging free radicals.
Weight Management
Research has found that consuming and cooking foods in their natural form can prevent overeating and reduce total caloric intake.
Sustainability
Purchasing raw fruits, vegetables and herbs is better for the environment and helps support local farmers.
All of this to say, we want you to eat more real food and we’ll even do all the cooking ;) Win- win! Our next menu is up and ready for ordering until Thursday at 6PM.
Article by Kate Rundell, future RDN. Visit www.nutrientnut.com to learn more about her perspective on health & wellness in the modern world.