I often see many people including a lot of fake foods, masquerading as healthy options, in their meals. And today, I want to discuss with you some of these foods, like truffle oil, syrup, and others, so you know how to identify them and make healthier choices.
WATCH OUT FOR THESE POTENTIALLY ARTIFICIAL FOODS
1. Truffle Oil: Many truffle oils you see in stores are not actually made from truffles. They often contain cheaper oils (like sunflower and vegetable oil), mixed with artificial flavors (derived from petroleum). So, be careful when eating meals out in restaurants made with truffle oil, as they may be using a counterfeit and very unhealthy blend.
2. Syrup: A beloved addition in desserts. However, some syrups in supermarkets are not pure, they have corn syrup and artificial colorings. Authentic syrup is a pure and natural product, so choose bottles labeled as '100% pure syrup'.
3. Wasabi: Much of the wasabi commercially available is not authentic. Many times it has other ingredients (additives) besides horseradish. Horseradish itself is not bad, just pay attention to the labels.
4. Parmesan Cheese: The only authentic cheese of this type is 'Parmigiano-Reggiano', originating from the Emilia-Romagna region in Italy. Unfortunately, many versions found in supermarkets are loaded with fillers like cellulose and rice flour. So, I recommend always looking for Parmigiano-Reggiano.
5. Vanilla: A staple in baking and flavoring but many vanilla products do not actually come from vanilla pods, but are synthesized in laboratories, lacking the rich complexities of real vanilla. I recommend opting for products obtained directly from vanilla pods.
6. Honey: A superfood but often honey in supermarkets is adulterated. Much of it is cut with high fructose corn syrup and other syrups. I recommend looking for trustworthy sources that offer pure and unadulterated honey.
7. Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is known for its wide-ranging health benefits. I recommend always checking the labels carefully and choosing a trusted brand that makes cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil.
8. Coffee: Coffee itself has health benefits, as long as its consumption is not abused. But pay attention to low-quality coffee offered in many places, deceiving coffee lovers. I recommend always choosing organic beans.
We are surrounded by processed food, and that's why it's important to know how to distinguish between what's real and what's artificial. Every choice we make affects our health, so we must be careful and read labels well. Remember, opt for simplicity and transparency, avoiding dubious additives and substitutes. Your body needs what's real and nutritious.
A big hug, your coach Luis