Did you think you knew what you were eating? Us too!
From surprising amounts of nutrients to the origins of some of our favorite dishes, here are some interesting facts about foods that will amaze you.
1. dark chocolate can be more than just a sweet treat
The dark chocolate that we know and love is made from the roasted beans of the cocoa tree and contains many interesting facts, many of which are beneficial for health.
According to Harvard, dark chocolate can help lower blood pressure and reduce inflammation. A study of an isolated strain with high cocoa consumption revealed lower rates of heart issue, cancer, and diabetes compared to the same tribesmen who migrated to the cities.
Bonus fact: Dark chocolate, which contains 70% cocoa or more, contains more caffeine per ounce than coffee. Don’t expect to stay up all night with the powdered hot chocolate that you would get in a supermarket. This product tends to be quite low in caffeine.
2. eat a fruit as sweet as nectar
Did you know that the word “nectarine” means “sweet as nectar” and that this is most likely the origin of the name?
It is believed that nectarines, like peaches, originated in China more than 4,000 years ago.
Nutritionally speaking, nectarines are a high source of vitamins C and A and are rich in antioxidants. They help to lose weight, regulate blood pressure and overall health. They also help improve immunity and heart health.
3. raspberries are part of the rose family
The same applies to cherries, apricots, plums, pears, apples, quinces, peaches, strawberries and blackberries. However, unlike Roses, these fruit varieties usually have flowers with five equal petals arranged around a central core.
And just like roses, raspberries (and blackberries) also have a lot of thorns – ouch!
4. Chickpeas and almonds contain almost as much protein as Steak
In a recent conversation with EatFirst about plant-based diets, Greg McFarlane, director of Vegan Australia, mentioned that it’s a common myth that you can’t get strong on a vegan diet, and this is a great example of breaking that myth.
According to Better Health, “if you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, you can usually get the protein you need as long as you eat a wide variety of foods.”
While 100 g of Steak can contain up to 25 g of protein, the same amount of chickpeas contains 21 g and almonds 28 g!
And if that’s an excuse to eat even more hummus, let’s take it!
5. The most hated vegetables in the world are some of the best for you
Brussels sprouts may be the most hated vegetables, but they are among the most nutritious.
It is full of vitamins and minerals, has practically no calories, no fat, no cholesterol and makes you feel full. Best of all, it also contains an antioxidant that is anti-inflammatory and could fight cancer.