As 2022 draws to a close, Well looks back over the past year’s food and nutrition articles and what he’s learned about eating (and drinking). Here are our favorite healthy nuggets of wisdom.
1. Chia seeds are worth including in your diet.
Super-strength seeds are trending on puddings, pretzels, jams and TikTok in 2022, making chia popular again. Chia seeds are overhyped, according to experts. Rich in fiber and rich in antioxidants. Add a tablespoon of seeds to smoothies or dip them in plant milk for a snack.
2. You don’t have to throw away all the berries.
A single mold-coated strawberry may look shabby, but it can be stored in the refrigerator as long as the other berries in the box show no visible signs of spores. Double check for fluff before eating. .
3. Morning coffee makes me feel better.
Researchers found that people who drank 1.5 to 3.5 cups of coffee a day were up to 30% less likely to die during the study period than those who drank no coffee. Your first (or second, or third) mug.
5. Natural wine may not be good for you.
There is very little research to support the claim that natural wines improve gut health, and a hangover is a hangover whether you’re drinking natural wines or conventional wines.
6. Food helps keep you hydrated.
You don’t have to rely solely on water to replenish your fluids. Your favorite fruits and vegetables are also great for hydration. Reach for melons, strawberries, oranges, grapes, cucumbers, or celery.
7. Limit the amount of processed meat you eat.
Eating an occasional hot dog isn’t bad for your health, but processed meats have been linked to cancer, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Plant-based alternatives are a safer bet, but not all are the same. Find the least processed option possible.
8. Stick to whole grains.
Most Americans don’t eat enough of them, but you can work against grains by including these high-fiber foods, such as oats and corn, in your diet. A combination of one cup and three cups of popcorn will meet your recommended daily intake of whole grains.
9. Change afternoon tea to matcha.
This bright green tea powder is ubiquitous, and while there are no definitive studies to show it’s a healthy food, matcha may have some benefits, such as providing plenty of antioxidants and plenty of caffeine. There is a possibility
10. Avoid sticky snacks.
Dried fruits, candies, gummies – These foods stay in the spaces between your teeth, leaving sugar in your mouth and encouraging bacterial growth. There are some steps you can take to prevent tooth decay, such as gulping down sugary drinks instead.