What Should I Eat?

Most of us hear a lot about what we shouldn’t eat.

“Cut back on red meat.” “Don’t drink sweetened soda.” “Eat fewer processed foods.” “Eat less sugar, fat and salt.” The list of “don’ts” just keeps growing.

Do you ever wonder what’s left that’s healthy and still tastes good? Would you like to know what you really should be eating?

Here’s the first in a periodic series of articles called “What Should I Eat?” Short tidbits about “normal” food that is good for you. Nothing exotic or expensive – I promise.


An Apple a Day?

“An apple a day keeps the doctor away.”

Doesn’t this phrase sound rather passé now that more fashionable fruits are “in”? But it may be closer to the truth that we ever thought.

In a number of large studies, eating apples regularly had a positive effect on blood pressure, risk of heart disease and stroke. Research points to an array of antioxidants and pectin (a form of soluble fiber) in apples that have a positive effect on cholesterol metabolism. Cancer-fighting compounds have also been identified in apples.

There are endless varieties of apples. Though modern agriculture has limited the choice in many supermarkets to a few mainstays like Red and Golden Delicious and Granny Smith, keep an eye out for other varieties as well. Don’t let the designation of “eating” and “baking” get in the way of tasting different apples. You may find that a baking apple is your favorite eating apple. And if you’re lucky, local farmers may be growing heirloom or more unusual varieties native to your area.

Since much of an apple’s healthy phytochemicals are concentrated in its peel, eat whole unpeeled apples whenever you can. When you want a change, try baked apples, apple crisp, apple sauce and even apple juice. Look for unsweetened products that are made with whole apples.