Learn what is healthy and unhealthy food in Pakistan
As Pakistanis, we deeply appreciate the bold flavors and intricate recipes that make up our cuisine. We Pakistanis love our Biryanis, Qourmas, and Niharis. However, in our quest for taste, we often forget the importance of a balanced and nutritious diet.
Pakistani cuisine has a rich balance of nutrition and taste. Unfortunately, it’s too common to see people opt for unhealthy, low-quality street food options like Siri Paye and Choula Kulchas. We have become accustomed to adages like Jitna Ghaleez Utna Lazeez, and the spicier, the better. While roadside food undoubtedly tastes good, paying close attention to the nutritional contents of each serving you consume is essential. Beware that ignoring the nutritional value can cause health risks, including obesity, blood pressure (hypertension), and even diabetes.
Let’s celebrate health and nourishment and work towards making every meal a satisfying experience.
What Are Healthy Foods?
When we hear the term healthy foods, we immediately think of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole foods. A recent Harvard study showed that eating fruits and vegetables has several health benefits, such as lower blood pressure, reduced risk of blood pressure, and a positive impact on blood sugars.
Nine different fruit and vegetable families exist. If a person eats a variety of types and colors of different produce, the body can get a steady supply of mixed nutrients. If you want to feel energized and maintain good health, we suggest adding 400 grams of fruits or vegetables to your everyday diet.
You necessarily do not need to stick with boring broccoli or boiled spinach. Baked chicken drumsticks, boneless chicken hara masala, karela sabzi, and lobia masala can be healthy if prepared right. Check out these fantastic expert approved recipes.
Fun Fact – Biryani can be healthy! See the nutrition facts of biryani yourself!
What Are Unhealthy Foods?
Unhealthy food is often associated with junk food, but did you know it’s not always the case? A recent study by the American Heart Association has defined unhealthy food as highly processed, low in nutrients, and high in empty calories that can harm our health.
A typical delicacy in Pakistan, “Paaye,” is a prime example of such unhealthy food. Consuming it can elevate cholesterol levels and negatively impact our lipid profile. “Pathooras,” another popular food item, are deep-fried in ghee or cooking oil, making them a heart attack waiting to happen due to the high levels of saturated fats. Even “Maghaz,” if not cooked correctly, can pose a severe threat by causing food poisoning. So, be careful with what you eat and choose wisely to lead a healthy life!
How to Differentiate Between Healthy And Unhealthy Foods?
Healthy and unhealthy foods can be distinguished based on several factors.
Taste
Unhealthy foods are more likely to taste better. Let’s face it; They’re often more tempting than healthy options. Who wouldn’t choose a juicy, hot slice of pizza over a plain old apple? And who can resist the allure of burgers, ice cream, samosas, or the syrupy delights of gulab jamun? These treats are packed with unhealthy fats and sugars, making them irresistible to our taste buds. Consuming unhealthy foods regularly can result in obesity and other ailments. So, choose wisely and enjoy in moderation!
User Consumption
In a recent Oxfam report, Pakistan ranked a worrying 97th out of 125 countries regarding dietary health. Pakistani love for traditional dishes cooked in desi ghee has caused 58.1{fb52c90c0a725c92a6f268bbe5fbc39af55a489ace50e341a2347e917a8f1d40} of the population to become overweight. According to a 2020 research study, It is not surprising that 43.9{fb52c90c0a725c92a6f268bbe5fbc39af55a489ace50e341a2347e917a8f1d40} of the Pakistani population is obese.
Energy Content (Calories)
Did you know that healthy foods like vegetables, fruits, honey, and nuts are powerhouses for boosting stamina and improving digestion? Consuming vegetables, fruits, honey, and nuts can boost stamina, increase vigor, and improve digestion. On the other hand, unhealthy foods filled with empty calories may give you a quick energy boost, but they don’t do much for your overall health. Katie McCullum (Houston Methodist) suggests that empty calories can provide an immediate energy spike but do not help build muscle or enrich the body with the requisite vitamins.
Pricing and Availability
Healthy or organic food options can be slightly more expensive than fast food but have a higher nutritional value. People opt for unhealthy fast food options as they are readily available and pre-cooked. Check out this amazing range of organic products. (if interested in promoting organic food companies)
Health Impacts
Highly processed foods might be easily accessible and cheaper but have detrimental health impacts. Opt for nutrient-packed, healthy food that fuel your body, prevent harmful health issues like diabetes, hypertension, and indigestion, and bring joy to your taste buds.
Healthy Food Options In Pakistan
Unlock your full potential and skyrocket your energy levels with these incredible power packed snacks!
For better health, consider consulting a nutritionist.