5 Surprising Nutrition Facts that Change Eating Habits

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    5 Surprising Nutrition Facts that Change Eating Habits

    Unveiling the truth behind daily dietary choices, this article demystifies nutrition with concrete facts and actionable advice. Backed by the knowledge of seasoned dietitians and nutrition scientists, it offers a pragmatic approach to transforming eating habits. Discover expert-endorsed strategies to navigate food myths and make informed decisions for a healthier lifestyle.

    • Switch to Glass and Stainless Steel
    • Prioritize Whole, Minimally Processed Foods
    • Eat Vegetables and Proteins First
    • Add Healthy Fats to Absorb Nutrients
    • Avoid Artificial Stabilizers and Preservatives

    Switch to Glass and Stainless Steel

    While studying plastic contamination in food, I learned that many common food storage practices - like reheating leftovers in plastic containers - can significantly increase the amount of microplastic particles in our meals. This revelation led me to completely revamp my food storage system, switching to glass and stainless steel containers.

    What fascinated me most was how this one change rippled through my entire relationship with food. Not only did it reduce potential plastic exposure, but I found myself becoming more mindful about meal planning and food waste. The visual reminder of seeing my food through glass containers helped me better track what needed to be eaten first, reducing my food waste by roughly 30%. I've found that sometimes the most impactful changes come from simple adjustments to how we store and prepare our food rather than just what we eat.

    Inge Von Aulock
    Inge Von AulockExecutive Director & Editor in Chief, Microplastics Uncovered

    Prioritize Whole, Minimally Processed Foods

    One surprising nutrition fact that significantly changed the way I eat is the impact of ultra-processed foods on overall health, even when they appear "healthy." Studies have shown that consuming a high percentage of ultra-processed foods-like packaged snacks, sugary cereals, and even some protein bars-can increase the risk of obesity, heart disease, and metabolic disorders. What was shocking to me was that these foods often contain additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients that disrupt gut health and contribute to inflammation, even if they are marketed as "low-fat" or "high-protein." This realization changed my approach to food by shifting my focus from just counting calories or macronutrients to prioritizing whole, minimally processed foods. Instead of relying on pre-packaged "healthy" options, I started incorporating more fresh vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and natural snacks like nuts and fruits. I also became more conscious of reading ingredient labels-if a product contains too many unrecognizable ingredients, I try to avoid it. For others looking to improve their nutrition, my biggest suggestion is to adopt a "back-to-basics" approach. Focus on whole, real foods as much as possible, cook meals at home, and avoid products with long ingredient lists filled with preservatives and artificial additives. Small changes, like swapping processed breakfast cereals for oatmeal or replacing sugary drinks with infused water, can make a big difference in overall health and energy levels. Prioritizing real food over processed alternatives is a simple yet powerful way to improve well-being.

    Julie Collins
    Julie CollinsMarketing Director, The FruitGuys

    Eat Vegetables and Proteins First

    One fascinating nutritional insight I found is how food order during meals can significantly impact blood sugar response. Research has shown that eating vegetables and proteins before carbohydrates in a meal can reduce post-meal blood glucose spikes by up to 39%. This is because fiber, fats, and proteins slow down carbohydrate digestion when eaten first.

    So, if you're interested in better blood sugar control:

    - Start meals with salads or vegetables

    - Eat protein foods before the starchy portions

    - Consider having fruit with protein (like nuts) rather than alone as a snack

    Maryna Von Aulock
    Maryna Von AulockBCIT Instructor & Editor in Chief, Oncology.

    Add Healthy Fats to Absorb Nutrients

    Good day,

    The one unexpected fact about nutrition that I learned is that eating healthy fats such as those found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil can actually help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) more effectively. Before knowing this, fats were something I used to steer clear of, as I thought they would make me gain weight. Knowing this, however, shifted my perspective in encouraging me to add more healthy fats into my meals, which actually has improved nutrient absorption and prolonged my fullness.

    "I tell people to eat healthy fat at every meal, especially if it has vegetables, as this is the only way to absorb nutrients. It's an excellent way to enhance both your overall nutrition and satiety."

    Spencergarret Fernandez
    Spencergarret FernandezSEO and SMO Specialist, Web Development, Founder & CEO, SEO Echelon

    Avoid Artificial Stabilizers and Preservatives

    I was shocked to learn how many of my favorite packaged desserts were loaded with artificial stabilizers and preservatives, until I stopped eating them and realized they were the reason for my digestion issues. Ever since, I've stuck to foods made with real ingredients, and I feel so much better. Check the labels, do your research, and stick to the good stuff. You'll taste and feel the difference. At Aurelia, we make fresh gelato and vegan sorbet using only the highest quality ingredients and nothing artificial.