HOW HEALTHY IS “HEALTH FOOD”?

February 22, 2020Dr Kalpana ShekhawatBlog

Let’s look at some of the highly promoted healthy food and how healthy it is!

Kombucha tea:

While this is a very beneficial probiotic mix for the gut, however, if you look at it, it is made from SCOBY (Symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast). We all know candida is a fungus which oftentimes overgrows in the body due to one of the following:

a) Stress

b) Low immunity

c) Excessive consumption of sugar

d) Processed food

e) Excessive consumption of grains

f) Regular alcohol intake

A person having an overgrowth of candida, which is extremely common in current times, will have opposing effects if they consume Kombucha. This is because candida growth will be enhanced due to the Ph of the Kombucha as well as the yeast content in it.

Though it is naturally fermented and can be excellent for digestion and overall health, kombucha is mostly fermented yeast.  We witness so many people with an overgrowth of yeast in their digestive tracts, drinking kombucha regularly is like adding fuel to the fire because it can make this imbalance worse, therefore choosing foods that are naturally fermented with bacteria like sauerkraut, pickles, kimchi, and kefir are better options to heal your gut. Fermented vegetables that do not have yeast in them can be highly useful in balancing the Gut bacteria in these patients.

The bottom line is not to follow any such recommendations without the advice of a practitioner who is qualified in nutrition and your blood work has been assessed.

Granola Bars:

The common perception is its a healthy snack, but despite these marketing claims, many are loaded with high sugar, plenty calories, and multiple chemical preservatives and artificial sweeteners.

Studies have clearly indicated that high consumption of processed and sugary foods can increase the risk of metabolic syndrome, this condition puts you at high risk of diabetes, stroke, and heart disease.

Gluten-free breads & cookies:

Natural gluten-free foods like fruit, vegetables, quinoa, ragi, water chestnut flour are good for you, many gluten-free packaged foods are loaded with inflammatory ingredients such as tapioca, corn starch, sodium, added sugar, and trans fat as any other processed food. Most of the gluten-free flours used to make these products have been stripped of the nutrients and fiber.

Agave Nectar:

Many people replace honey with agave, assuming it to be a healthier option. However, agave syrups are known to be highly processed and more closely resemble high-fructose corn syrup. Also, it goes straight to the liver where it gets absorbed, which is why it doesn’t raise blood sugar. But large amounts can actually tax the liver, therefore it’s not the best kind of sweetener, Therefore its better to use a dash of natural organic honey.

Sweetened flavored Nut milk:

Most people who have been advised by their doctor to switch to nut milk find their way in packaged flavored nut milk. yes If you’re lactose intolerant or vegan, nut milk can be a good non-dairy option. But the type of nut milk you choose matters. Many of these are packed with sugar, making them anything but healthy. If you love nut milk, make sure you make your own at home.

Flavored yogurt: 

High in sugar and loaded with artificial ingredients can be detrimental to your health. Coconut yogurt and other dairy-free desserts made from natural alternatives to sugar such as stevia may be better options to satisfy your cravings.

Yogurt is an easy way to get probiotic bacteria along with calcium, protein, and vitamin D. But flavored varieties are packed with so much sugar they may derail your low carb diet completely.

Also must avoid artificially sweetened light yogurts, as these can cause bloating and gas.  add your own flavor to plain yogurt by mixing in cinnamon, vanilla extract, or fresh berries is a great idea.