Can You Live Only on Canned Food?

The short answer is no. A diet consisting only of canned food would provide inadequate nutrition since it is often void of essential vitamins, minerals and fiber. However, canned foods can be part of a healthy diet when added to a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains and dairy products.

Canned foods offer convenience and are often budget-friendly.

Most canned foods are processed with minimal nutrients lost or destroyed; this makes them an excellent source for essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, vitamin B-12, iron and zinc. When opting for canned goods, watch out for added sodium as many canned vegetable products contain high amounts of salt which can quickly increase daily sodium intake.

Canned fish such as tuna, salmon and sardines are nutrient dense options providing essential Omega-3 fatty acids; the American Heart Association recommends consuming two servings per week for optimal health benefits. Canned beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein as well as fiber and other vitamins and minerals; just make sure to rinse the beans before consuming to reduce sodium levels by up to 40 percent.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, while it is not recommended to live solely off of canned food due to its limited nutritional value, incorporating a variety of canned foods into a balanced diet can be a great way to add convenience without sacrificing nutrition.