Nutrition Series: Breaking down stereotypes on foods typically deemed ‘unhealthy’

More often than not, we find ourselves blindsided by misinformation associated with the nutrition facts about certain food items. Of course, there are many foods that contain a higher nutritional value content than others. However, there is also a tremendous negative association tied to foods thought to be bad for you. Don’t be so quick to let caloric content dictate your diet, as oftentimes the foods we rule out as unhealthy actually contain numerous health benefits.

1. Avocados

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Many shy away from avocados, which are indeed a fruit, due to the commonality of high fat content. It is true — avocados do contain fats, though not the bad kind. Loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, more commonly referred to as omega-3 fatty acids, avocados are actually proven to lower cholesterol count.

2. Peanut butter

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Peanut butter is yet another food that many have come to believe is bad for you. However, don’t be fooled by the number of calories on the jar. Peanut butter is packed with protein and potassium, lowering risk of high blood pressure, stroke and heart disease. It also contains high magnesium content that builds bones, Vitamin B-6 and monounsaturated fats. Rest assured, omega-3 fatty acids are in fact good for you.

3. Potatoes

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Though this vegetable is often pushed to the side, you may want to reconsider, as the nutritional value in the potato goes well beyond the carbohydrate count that many people seem to fear.

In moderation, potatoes are one of the best sources for good starches necessary to lead a balanced diet. Often the misconception of the mass amount of starch in a potato comes from its size, but 70-80 percent of a potato is made up of water. This vegetable is abundant with antioxidants, which helps to prevent against certain types of cancer. They also contain Vitamins A and C. Most of the potatoes nutrients are found right beneath the skin so be sure to count that into your meal.

4. Eggs

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Although eggs are extremely high in protein, they are often deemed to be unhealthy because of the yellow, starchy and high-in-cholesterol yolk. The yolk is high in cholesterol, but it doesn’t directly contribute to raising blood cholesterol. Eggs increase our High Density Lipoprotein, often referred to as the “good cholesterol,” which lowers the risk of heart disease and stroke. So next time you go for your morning eggs, don’t skip out on the yolk.

5. Coffee

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Contrary to popular belief, the coffee bean contains significant health benefits. Filled with a vast amount of antioxidants, coffee is proven to increase mental health, mood and disposition. Even though there has been some controversy over whether or not coffee increases blood pressure, several medical studies have shown that coffee drinkers have a lower risk of developing heart disease, stroke, type II diabetes and liver cancer. “Coffee is one of the healthiest beverages. Period,” Authority Nutrition said.