Buzz
For years, unhealthy foods and beverages have been under fire for their high calorie, sodium, fat, and sugar levels. Not to mention the dire aftermath of indulging in fast food or curling up with a box of Domino’s pizza at home. We all have a soft spot for junk and comfort foods… they’re simply too tempting to resist! Giving up delicious food seems impossible, right? But what if I told you that you might not have to? Here’s a list of the top 10 ‘unhealthy’ foods that could actually be good for you!
10. Coffee
Each day, millions of people across the globe kickstart their mornings with a fresh cup of coffee. In fact, 74% of Americans sip on coffee daily, with over 2.25 billion cups consumed worldwide! While coffee has often been blamed for causing health issues, the truth is brighter than you think! Frank Hu, chair of the Department of Nutrition at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, shared, 'The overall evidence has been pretty convincing that coffee has been more healthful than harmful in terms of health outcomes.' So, what's the scoop?
Research reveals that moderate coffee consumption can lower the risks of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, liver and endometrial cancers, and depression. Amazing, right? But remember, this doesn’t mean you should go overboard with excessive coffee or drown it in caramel, chocolate syrup, and whipped cream. Only Lorelai Gilmore has the caffeine tolerance to handle that much!
9. Ice Cream
Whether you enjoy vanilla, strawberry, or mint, ice cream is the perfect treat to brighten your day! But how exactly can it benefit you? Here's the scoop...
Ice cream is packed with essential nutrients like protein, calcium, and vitamins D & A. These nutrients help shield you from illness and support your body's ability to absorb calcium, which is crucial for strong bones. Plus, ice cream is rich in milk, a vital source of nutrients for babies to build healthy bones as they grow.
Ice cream isn't just good for your body—it can boost your mental health too! The psychological benefits of indulging in this sweet treat are often overlooked. Eating ice cream triggers the release of dopamine, the 'feel-good' chemical, contributing to a better mindset. With this evidence in mind, it's clear that ice cream really can lift your spirits!
8. Dark Chocolate
One of the world's most cherished indulgences! Who can resist chocolate? Many people assume that chocolate is packed with sugar. However, you’ll be surprised to learn that dark chocolate contains less sugar than other types. It’s also rich in flavanols, which can lower the risk of heart disease. Additionally, dark chocolate is a fantastic source of vital nutrients like magnesium, potassium, and iron. The flavanols in dark chocolate can protect your skin from sun damage, enhance blood flow to your skin, and boost skin hydration.
But wait, there’s even more... Research indicates that consuming high levels of flavanol (cocoa) can enhance blood flow to the brain, which improves focus, concentration, and memory. Additionally, chocolate triggers the release of dopamine, a chemical in the body that promotes relaxation and happiness. This is why chocolate is often called a 'comfort food.'
7. Pizza
Pizza is often viewed as an occasional treat rather than a healthy option. Most pizzas are loaded with calories and sodium, especially with toppings like cheese and salty meats. Plus, many pizzas contain added sugar in the crust and sauce. However, pizza can actually be a nutritious meal when made with the right ingredients and enjoyed in moderation. Here’s why pizza can be a surprisingly healthy choice!
First, pizza includes ingredients from nearly all food groups! It has a crust (grains), cheese (dairy), tomato sauce, and various toppings (vegetables), all of which provide essential nutrients. Moreover, pizza includes protein, whether from chicken, salami, or your preferred meat. Even plant-based options like tofu can contribute protein!
Plus, the power of customization. When you prepare your pizza or select the ingredients, you have full control over what goes into it. This means you can make healthier decisions and tailor the pizza to fit your dietary needs. So by swapping one type of cheese for another or switching the sauce... Boom! Done!
6. Salsa
What do robots dip in salsa? Microchips.
This flavorful snack is the perfect pairing with tortilla chips. Its rich taste, spicy kick, and—wait for it—health benefits? Yep, you heard it correctly! Salsa is packed with vitamins A and C, thanks to its star ingredients: onions, tomatoes, and lime juice.
Even more impressive is its low calorie content—or should we say, the lack of calories! A mere 15 calories in a 2-tablespoon serving, making it a guilt-free choice for a flavorful snack. Since over 95% of the weight of tomatoes is water, this dish is incredibly hydrating and rich in fiber!
5. Eggs
But aren't eggs healthy? Many have warned against eating more than one egg a day, even suggesting you should only consume the egg whites. Not to mention, eggs are an ingredient in some of the best unhealthy foods—think brownies, cupcakes, and cheesecake! But let's take a deeper dive into the world of eggs.
As we age, our vision tends to decline, but there are some EGGStraordinary nutrients in eggs that support eye health! The yolk is packed with carotenes, which not only aid in vision improvement but also help prevent muscle loss! I'm not even EGGSaggerating. You’ve got to admit, that was a pretty EGGcellent joke… Alright, I’ll stop now.
In all seriousness, eggs are loaded with a variety of minerals and vitamins like Vitamin D and B12, as well as essential amino acids, which play a role in building and repairing body tissues! Eggs are also one of the BEST sources of choline, found in the yolk, which is crucial for brain development. This nutrient is vital for everyone’s brain to function properly, including supporting memory. Eggs are also a cost-effective option for maintaining a balanced diet. For example, they can be enjoyed at breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even dessert!
4. Red Wine
This isn’t meant to encourage excessive drinking or provide an excuse for consuming more wine. The flavor of wine can differ significantly based not only on the country it hails from but also the specific region within that country. Regardless of its origin, though, the benefits of wine are universal.
Red wine is rich in antioxidants that protect the blood vessels of your heart. By preventing damage to these vessels, it lowers the risk of blood clots, reduces heart artery damage, and enhances cellular function along the blood vessel walls.
Research indicates that these health benefits apply to those who consume alcohol in moderation, while regular heavy drinking raises the risk of heart disease, liver damage, and various types of cancer. So, before reaching for that third glass of wine, think it over!
3. Gum
Though gum is often a quick fix for bad breath, the act of chewing also boosts blood circulation to the brain and increases oxygen flow throughout the body. This stimulation helps improve focus, attention span, relaxation, and memory.
Studies show that chewing the same flavored gum while studying and then again while taking the test can help your brain 'remember' the information more effectively. This little trick can definitely give you an edge when it comes to acing those exams! Of course, it won't guarantee a perfect score, but it certainly boosts your chances.
2. Popcorn
Imagine relaxing in your favorite chair at home with a bowl of popcorn, or perhaps enjoying a box of it at the cinema while watching a movie. Could this beloved snack actually save your life? Believe it or not, it might just do that!
Popcorn is packed with polyphenols, which, in addition to potentially lowering the risk of certain illnesses, are also great for boosting blood circulation, digestive health, and overall bodily functions. When prepared with minimal unhealthy additives like salt or sugar, it remains low in calories. So, not only is popcorn a delightful movie snack, but it’s also a healthful companion.
1. Candy
Despite what many believe, candy can actually offer some health benefits. It can help with digestion, reduce stress, and even relieve coughs! Peppermint candies like Dutch mints and Polos are known to calm an upset stomach and ease gas and bloating. Ginger candies such as Gingins and Ginger Chews are great for alleviating nausea and motion sickness. The sugar and honey content in sweets can also soothe a sore throat. So, when the doctor hands you a piece of candy and says, 'It’ll ease the pain,' they’re telling the truth!
