What are whole foods?

Christine Bailey © Naturally Good Health in connection with Natural Health Week

Whole foods are the world's healthiest foods. They are foods that are unprocessed or minimally processed and in such a way that none of their nutritional characteristics has been intentionally modified. Whole foods contain the maximum amount of original natural nutrients in the right proportions.

Why are they so good for us?

So what is it about them that gives us these valuable health benefits?

Firstly, whole foods are complex. They contain a myriad of compounds that work in synergy. They are packed full of phytonutrients which have health-promoting properties as well as vitamins, minerals and macronutrients like fibre, protein and beneficial fats. Conversely refined and processed foods not only are devoid of this spectrum of nutrients but often contain an array of chemical additives. Food synergy, where two or more compounds work together, is critical to good health. Eat whole foods and you receive all the nutrients in one unique package.

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Whole foods are also rich in numerous key nutrients essential to our health. Antioxidants, for example, offer protection from free radicals and other damaging molecules. These molecules are known to promote development of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and a whole host of other conditions. Similarly whole foods are rich in fibre and resistant starches which can benefit the digestive system, slow down the release of sugars into the blood stream and help eliminate toxins from the body. They contain a vast array of nutrients, many of which we are only just discovering the benefits of. But it is clear that if you wish to achieve optimum health, whole foods provide the answer.

If you have not used whole foods before they can seem a little daunting at first. Start by introducing one or two new foods at a time and you'll soon discover how healthy and delicious they are.

Why should we eat them?

Research shows us time and time again that eating a diet based on whole foods results in lower risk of many types of cancers and chronic diseases, promotes healthy ageing, a healthier body and higher energy levels. They are protecting and enhancing foods capable of healing the body and preventing long-term disease.