Healthiest Canned Foods to Keep
In a utopian setting, we would all be making meals from scratch using only the freshest ingredients. But in the real world, often we don’t have the energy or time for such kitchen tasks and are seeking much needed shortcuts. Besides, fresh ingredients like vegetables and fish can be crazy expensive and not always as fresh-tasting as we hope. Enter canned food.
Certainly, canned foods can be a hack to getting meals on the table quicker and with less effort. Yet they often get a bad rap and are thought to be much less nutritious and flavorful than fresh or even frozen foods. But the truth is that many canned foods are typically still nutrient-rich because the canning process has less impact on nutrition than you may think.
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Top 5 Healthiest Canned Foods
1. Canned Oysters
Oysters are a delicacy that you can enjoy without the hassle and danger to your fingers of shucking them. Though often overlooked for other canned seafood, tinned oysters deliver a tidal wave of nutrition. Each can contains not only healthy amounts of protein to support muscle growth but also more than the daily need for the nutrients vitamin B12, copper and immune-boosting zinc. You also get a decent amount of selenium, a mineral that research suggests may help guys lower their risk of developing prostate cancer.
And here is some shocking nutritional news: Canned oysters are a richer source of iron than beef. Who knew? Iron helps make hemoglobin, a component of red blood cells that hauls oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body including the heart, brain and muscles. So coming up short in your diet can lead to poor brain functioning, fatigue and other health concerns.
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2. Canned Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce
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3. Canned Pumpkin
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4. Canned Black Beans
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5. Canned Crushed Tomatoes
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And there you have it, the top 5 healthiest canned foods that deserve a spot in your pantry. With their impressive nutrient profiles and convenient preparation methods, they’re a great way to upgrade your diet without breaking the bank or sacrificing flavor.
So, which canned foods do you use in your cooking? Do you have any favorite recipes or tips for incorporating these healthiest canned foods into your diet? Share with us in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are all canned foods healthy?
A: No, not all canned foods are created equal. While some may be rich in nutrients, others may be high in sodium, added sugars, or artificial preservatives. Always check the label and choose options that align with your dietary needs and preferences.
Q: How do I choose the healthiest canned foods?
A: When shopping for canned foods, look for options that are labeled “low sodium” or “no added salt,” and opt for ones with minimal added ingredients. You can also check the nutrition label for information on the amount of vitamins and minerals per serving.
Q: Can I still cook with canned foods even if I have dietary restrictions?
A: Yes, most canned foods can be adapted to accommodate common dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan diets. Simply choose options that align with your dietary needs, and experiment with new recipes and cooking methods.