Monday, October 27, 2008

These "weird" foods are recommended for You!

Try not to be scared off by the creepy names and funny appearances of the following foods -- they're surprisingly good for you!

Some of these foods would scare the fuzz off a peach. But when prepared right, they taste great and good for you!

I know the first time I tried squid, someone told me it was piece of shrimp. I was horrified at first, but then I was shocked at how good it tasted!

eDiets Director of Nutrition Services Pam Ofstein says, "Change can be good and help keep you on track -- eating doesn't become monotonous and trying new, healthy foods can be exciting."

1. Wheat Germ:
Most germs are detrimental to your health. That is, of course, unless you are talking about wheat germ, the part of the wheat berry responsible for germination. Wheat germ contains more iron and potassium than almost any other food. It is also rich in phosphorous, lecithin, riboflavin, calcium, selenium, zinc and vitamin E.

"Top your cereal with wheat germ -- it is a great way to get some extra nutrients including fiber," Pam says. "Or add some to low-fat yogurt or with cottage cheese for a healthy and nutritious snack."

2. Star Fruit:
Also known as Carambola, this tart fruit is shaped like a star and is jam packed with vitamin C. Add it to your fruit salad for an extra powerful vitamin punch!

"Star fruit is also low in fat and naturally cholesterol- and sodium-free. One serving is only about 40 calories and provides 3 grams of fiber -- a great way to get that much needed fiber in your diet daily," Pam says.

Another funky fruit that is great for you is pomegranate.
"Just eat the fruit itself or enjoy it as juice. It offers antioxidant benefits and is high in vitamin c and potassium," says Pam.

3. Clams:
These shelled mollusks are a delicious and healthy treat for any shellfish lover! 20 small clams have around 280 calories and fewer than 4 grams of fat! Just make sure you don't douse them in butter or a creamy sauce. Clams are a good meal choice for those on the Atkins diet because they are a source of protein, too.

4. Acai Fruit:
This dark berry is native to Central and South America and has recently grown in popularity in the U.S. The juice and pulp of acai fruits can be used in smoothies and juices, and they are rich in vitamin B, minerals, fiber, iron, proteins and omega-3 fatty acids.

"Acai is rich in anthocyanins (also known as flavonoids), which have antioxidant properties that will protect against free radicals," Pam says.

5. Eel:
Many Japanese restaurants serve barbequed eel while others use it in different types of sushi rolls. Eel contains fewer than 200 calories per 4-ounce serving and is a delicious -- and nutritious -- delicacy. Sushi is a great meal for those counting calories as the portions are generally small.

So next time you want to refuse that freaky food, you might want to consider giving it a second look! Pam says, "Not only can you get some additional healthy advantages for adding new foods into your meal plans, but they also spice it up a bit."

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