The Difference Between Healthy and Nutritious

A majority of the time, people confuse healthy foods with being high in nutrition. However, there is a difference between a food being healthy and a food being nutritious. Sure, a food can be both at once, but that’s not always the case.

Google defines nutritious as nourishing and efficient as food. 

It defines healthy as promoting good health. 

These two definitions may seems similar but there is a difference. Healthy just means a food that stops you from getting sick and keeps you living longer. Nutritious means a food that fills you with the sufficient amount of nutrients (vitamins, carbohydrates, proteins) your body requires to survive.

It can be hard to eat healthy and nutritious with all the fast and processed foods in the world. Once again, Massel’s here to save the day. Here’s our short guide to fueling your body with food.

Choose the right type

The type of food you eat plays a huge role in the amount of nutrition your body gets.

• Carbohydrates: Carbs are the body’s main source of energy. High quality carbs include whole grains, fruit, starchy vegetables and beans.
• Fats: Stay away from saturated fat and trans fat. Both contribute to an increased risk in cardiovascular disease. Instead, opt for unsaturated and Omega-3 fatty acids. They actually decrease your risk of heart disease and improve blood cholesterol. Try olive oil, peanut oil, salmon, tuna, flaxseed and nuts.
• Proteins: Protein is an essential part of your body. It makes up you hair and nails, builds and repairs tissues, and makes enzymes, hormones and other body chemicals. Foods high in dietary proteins include fish, skinless poultry, beans, nuts and whole grains.
• Vitamins: There are so many types of vitamins out there it may get confusing when deciding which ones to eat. Basically, vitamins have the ability to prevent and treat various diseases including heart problems, eye disorders and skin disorders. Check out the specific benefits of each vitamin.

Foods to eat and the nutrients they contain

1. Broccoli: a good source of energy and contains minerals such as calcium, potassium and phosphorus. Don’t knock it ’till you try it kids.
2. Beans: high in protein, packed with fiber and help guard against certain chronic diseases. You can learn more about how to cook with beans in our recent blog post.
3. Bananas: extremely high in potassium and provide good amounts of magnesium and phosphorus. Plus, they’re perfect for on-the-go snacks!
4. Sweet Potatoes: rich in heart-healthy potassium and vision-boosting vitamin A. Sweet Potatoes are one of the most nutritious vegetables you can eat.
5. Salmon: contains the greatest amount of Omega-3s, which are important for body functions. Let this fish swim downstream — your throat.
6. Kale: contains Vitamin C, Vitamin A, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. You can’t go wrong with kale!
7. Blueberries: extremely high in antioxidants. They’re yummy and good for you. How could you say no?
8. Egg yolks: loaded with vitamins, minerals and powerful nutrients like Lutein and choline. They are one of the most nutritious foods on the planet.
9. Dark chocolate: loaded with fiber, iron, magnesium, copper, manganese and a range of antioxidants. Don’t worry: you can be nutritious and satisfy your sweet tooth at the same time.

Be consistent

Remember that pretty food pyramid you were introduced to in grade school? Believe it or not, that’s actually important in everyday life. Pay attention to what you’re eating to make sure you’re getting the correct amount of each food group daily. Here’s a detailed look into the elements of the pyramid.

Try Massel meals

Check out some of our nutrient-rich meals to help you stay on top of your health game.

1. Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry: With both poultry and broccoli, this dish is packed with dietary proteins and minerals.
2. Crispy Kale Chips: These are perfect for when you want to stay energized on the go.
3. Vegan Roasted Sweet Potato Soup: This soup is vegan, heart-healthy and perfect to warm you up during cold weather.
4. Poached Salmon: This classic take on a delicious fish is packed with Omega fatty acids.
5. Gluten-Free Baked Beans: You can never go wrong with beans, especially this family picnic classic. You’ll be feeling full and satisfied after this meal.

As long as you follow these guidelines, you’re on your way to becoming a nutrition expert. Feed your family and yourself only things that benefit your body.