Bad Food That’s Good For You
Somewhere along the line, these foods got labeled unhealthy, but they are actually good for you!
Eggs
If your grandma caught you pouring a carton of egg whites into a skillet, she might be thinking something like, "what happened to the rest of it?" Years back, egg whites became a thing when egg yolks got demonized for contributing to high cholesterol and heart disease. Egg whites are rich in protein but lack the nutrient profile of the egg yolk, which is high in cholesterol and fat, and an EGG-cellent source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. In fact, eggs contain all vitamins and minerals except for vitamin C!
If you're an egg lover, you will be pleased to know that research over time has shown that cholesterol found in egg yolks has a small effect on serum cholesterol compared to other diet and lifestyle factors like saturated fat intake. The American Heart Association doesn't give a specific recommendation for how many eggs to eat but instead emphasizes an overall intake of healthy foods. ah.mi recipes focus on whole foods with less than six ingredients, so they are incredibly easy to make even with the busiest schedules. Hard-boiled eggs are a member staple for a protein-packed snack on the go!
Potatoes
These root veggies get a bad wrap because they are high in carbohydrates and often consumed as fat bombs in french fries and potato chips. To enjoy all potatoes have to offer, save them from the frier and transform them into a delicious baked treat for a good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamin C. These little spuds are also packed with potassium, which your body needs for blood pressure regulation, kidney and heart function, muscle contraction and nerve transmission. Try their orange counterparts, sweet potatoes, for an added dose of beta-carotene.
Peanut Butter
This non-nut butter has had bad press for the hydrogenated oils and sugars added to many brands that make it good enough to eat by the spoonful! When you're buying peanut butter, the fewer ingredients, the better. I'm talking just peanuts and salt.
Wait, non-nut butter, you say? Peanuts aren't nuts; they're actually peas. These shining stars of the legume family have more plant-based protein than any nut, along with a healthy dose of monounsaturated fat, which can help lower cholesterol and reduce your heart disease risk. High in insoluble fiber, peanuts have a low glycemic index, which aids in keeping your blood sugar within normal limits. Peanuts are a good source of B vitamins, niacin, and folate.
Niacin is vital for proper digestion, skin health, nerve function, energy, and cognitive protection against Alzheimer's. Folate is essential for the production and maintenance of cells, and especially crucial during pregnancy. Peanuts also contain the antioxidant, Vitamin E, protecting cells from damage, leading to cardiac disease, and cancer. Several of ah.mi's smoothies pair natural peanut butter with leafy greens to start your morning off right with a delicious dose of protein and antioxidants that will keep you hydrated and satisfied until lunch!
