Why are chips unhealthy?!
Why are chips unhealthy?
Is it what they are cooked in; because I thought that olive oil is good for you, and that’s what I cook mine in.
I try to be a healthy eater so does anyone have any healthy carbohydrate (the ones that release energy slowly) suggestions. I’ve run out of ideas at wholegrain rice! Any other suggestions?
All opinions welcome
Answers:
Hi there, yes chips have got a bad reputation for being unhealthy, but there are ways to make them healthier, oven cook them (brush them with olive oil first), and cut them chunky, that way there is less surface area covered in oil!
With carbohydrates, it's important to differentiate between "slow release" and "quick release" carbohydrates, as you are already aware.
* Quick release carbohydrate foods include honey, malt, sweets, white flour and most refined foods. Quick release carbohydrates tend to give a sudden burst of energy followed by a slump.
* Slow release carbohydrates help to slow the release of glucose and provide more sustained energy and are therefore preferable. They are found in some starchy vegetables (eg sweet potato, corn and peas), whole grains, pasta and cold climate fruit (eg apples, oranges, berries, and stone fruit).
* Slow release carbohydrate snacks can help maintain your stamina and energy for the day while quick release carbohydrate foods can give an instant energy boost and help recovery after strenuous exercise but are not a long-lasting energy source
Research has shown that unrefined carbohydrate foods like grains, beans, fruits and vegetables offer protection against major diseases like cancer, heart disease and diabetes.
Carbohydrates that are lacking in essential vitamins, minerals and fibre are often referred to as "empty calories". Over-indulgence in these starchy and sweet foods like biscuits, cookies, cakes, and lollies could result in nutritional deficiency as well as promote obesity.
For carbohydrate intake on a daily basis, it is advisable for adults to:
* Eat five or more servings combining dark green, leafy and root vegetables such as asian greens, carrots, sweet potatoes, broccoli, brussels sprouts, spinach, green beans or peppers, raw or lightly cooked.
* Eat two or more servings of fresh fruit such as bananas, apples, pears, berries, melon or citrus fruit and
* Eat three or more servings of whole grains such as rice, millet, rye, oats, wholewheat, corn, cereal, breads, pasta or pulses.