It is not strange to know that some of the foods we hate the most, are the foods that our bodies best needs, so it would be greatly beneficial if we gave another chance to these foods, because they are actually good for us, especially in these times where we need our body functioning optimally and our immune system in top form.
Take a look at these foods. They are popular, not very liked, and yet, they are essential nutrient requirements for our bodies.
Mushrooms
Many people claim to hate the texture or taste of mushrooms. However, if you can get past this, you could be doing your health a big favour. Mushrooms are not only a good source of protein, they are rich in B vitamins and are the only vegetable to naturally contain Vitamin D. To give the healthy fungi another shot, try using it as an ingredient in burgers to help disguise their texture.
Celery
Celery is a commonly disliked vegetable. However, the crunchy vegetable is packed with nutrients such as Vitamin K, potassium and Folate. Celery is low in calories and can help lower blood pressure. To reap these health benefits, try sneaking some celery into your diet by adding to blended soup. Not only will this help disguise the texture of celery, but with the accompaniment of other tasty ingredients you will hardly know it’s there.
Brussels Sprouts
When you consider their smell and appearance, it may not seem surprising that sprouts are an unpopular food. Yet sprouts are an extremely healthy source of vitamins K, C and omega-3 fatty acids, are high in cancer-fighting substances (glucosinolates), and can even taste good when prepared right. One suggestion to increase the appeal of sprouts, is to choose fresh sprouts rather than frozen, and be careful not to overcook them as this is what causes that trademark smell.
Fish
Fish smells, we all can agree on that. Whether it is the smell, the texture or those hidden bones, many kids, and even adults hate fish and this can be something that sticks with us almost our entire life. However, fish is not only a great source of protein, but the oily kinds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids which can contribute to a healthy heart and brain. Also, adding fish to a meal can greatly improve the taste, especially if you’re making an African dish. It is almost impossible to cook any Nigerian delicacy without adding one type of fish or the other. So let’s give fish another chance, shall we?
Marmite
Marmite is famous for having its haters. However, the savory substance is an extremely healthy, versatile and diet-friendly spread. Not only is it low in fat and calories, but marmite is packed with B vitamins which are good for the nervous system, mood and energy levels. If you want to give it a go but find the taste too strong, dilute marmite by adding to a savory sauce, or try making marmite muffins or bread.
Tomatoes
This might come as a surprise, but there are some folks who really do not like tomatoes. Although some people hate tomatoes in any form, there are others who dislike the raw fruit but will happily tuck into tomato sauces or salsa. The good news is research has suggested that the antioxidant lycopene is better absorbed by the body when eaten in processed and cooked tomatoes than the fresh, raw variety. Lycopene is great for fighting heart disease and cancer. Tomatoes are great.
Broccoli
As with sprouts, broccoli’s reputation has been ruined for many of us by our common exposure to badly cooked forms of the veggie. However, try ditching the soggy, boiled broccoli for a better recipe and you may find you actually change your mind. To reap the antioxidant benefits of this healthy vegetable, try lightly roasting broccoli with olive oil, garlic and seasoning for a crunchy, flavourful meal accompaniment
Tofu
Tofu in Yoruba language is called “ewara” or “kwai de kwai” in Hausa language. While tofu is not a dietary essential, the product is a staple of the traditional Japanese diet (considered to be one of the healthiest diets in the world) and is a great protein alternative for those wishing to reduce their meat intake. Tofu not only has great cholesterol-lowering properties, but it contains phytoestrogens which can help alleviate symptoms of the menopause. To give tofu more flavour, try marinating with soy sauce before cooking. Alternatively, if you don’t like the texture but want the health benefits, try adding soy milk into your diet instead. From personal experience, I’d say Tofu is a delicious food.
Avocados
Many people dislike the texture of Avocados, for reasons I do not know. However, this healthy fruit is extremely high in vitamin E, potassium and essential fatty acids and is great for skin and heart health. To add avocado into your diet, try mixing the fruit into a tasty guacamole dip and serving with grilled pita bread wedges or crudités. Alternatively, try blending with lemon juice, oil and seasoning to make a healthy alternative to mayonnaise.
Peanut Butter
There are quite a number of people who hate that stick-to-the-roof-of-your-mouth texture of peanut butter? You’re definitely not alone. In fact, there is even a name for this phobia – arachibutyrophobia. However, while it is not an essential dietary component, peanut butter does have many health benefits including its abilities to lower cholesterol and help ward off heart disease. To dilute the taste and stickiness of the spread, try mixing peanut butter into a satay sauce or adding to a salad dressing.