It seems as though the nutrition and health industries come up with a new trendy buzzword every month or so! In reality, most of these concepts are recycled from older ideas that have been around for a while. But that doesn’t help much when you’re trying to decipher all the lingo and choose an eating plan that is right for you.
So, to help out, we’re providing brief explanations of some recent catchphrases you might be hearing.
Aquafaba. If you use canned beans, you might have noticed that they include a starchy, watery substance. Interestingly enough, that water is actually a useful substitute for egg whites when you whip it like a meringue. Who knew!
IIFYM. It stands for If It Fits Your Macros… But what are macros? That’s a reference to “macronutrients”, or fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Some people follow a diet that balances the three macronutrients, often limiting carbohydrates in particular. But just because something “fits” into your macro allowance, doesn’t always mean it’s good for you.
Micronutrients. There’s more than just fat, carbs, and protein in your food. Micronutrients are the vitamins and minerals that play important roles in your health.
Keto. The “keto” diet is all the rage right now. Keto references ketosis, the state in which the body is forced to burn fat stores for energy. Dieters follow a very low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet in order to achieve their goals, but it might not be healthy in the long term.
MIND Diet. This diet is exactly what it sounds like; the intent is to focus on foods that are healthy for your brain. According to some research, the Mediterranean -Intervention for Neurogenerative Delay diet can prevent Alzheimer’s disease. The eating plan encompasses green leafy vegetables, fish, nuts, berries, beans, whole grains, olive oil, and even wine. “Harmful” foods like red meat, dairy, fried foods, and sugar are reduced.
Paleo. This diet trend is based on the hunter-gatherer lifestyle, from which all humans evolved. Paleo dieters focus on meat, seafood, fruits, vegetables, and nuts, while avoiding processed foods, dairy, and grains.
Sprouted grains. Typically, grains are gathered, processed, and made into bread or other products. If you stop after the gathering process, soak the grains in water, and wait until they sprout, you have sprouted grains. The sprouts are then used in food, and supposedly they are easier to digest than their non-sprouted counterparts.
Whole 30. With the Whole 30 diet you spend 30 days eliminating alcohol, sugar, grains, dairy, legumes, and food additives. You eat only whole foods (think close to nature), rather than processed or refined products.
As you can see, many of these trendy buzzwords encourage similar ideas. Eating natural foods, while avoiding processed, packaged products, is always going to be a healthier lifestyle. So, try not to get too caught up in the lingo, and just choose a balanced eating plan that is healthy and fits well into your life. That is the plan you’re most likely to stick with.
