When it comes to convenience, canned food is hard to beat. Many canned fruits and vegetables contain essential vitamins and minerals and can be a healthy part of your diet. However, there are some important things to consider when deciding whether or not canned foods are right for you.
Nutritional Value
Canned foods can offer many nutritional benefits. In fact, some research indicates that certain canned fruits and vegetables may have more antioxidants than their fresh counterparts, due to the canning process which helps preserve the nutrients. Canned tuna, salmon and other fish are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. Additionally, many canned goods are fortified with calcium and iron.
Added Sodium
One drawback of canned foods is the added sodium content.
Canned goods often have added salt or preservatives to help preserve them for long-term storage. This added sodium can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues if consumed in excess. To reduce your sodium intake from canned foods, look for “low-sodium” or “no-salt-added” varieties when shopping. Additionally, be sure to rinse any canned produce before eating it to help reduce the amount of sodium you consume.
BPA Concerns
Another potential issue with canned foods is their potential exposure to the chemical bisphenol A (BPA). BPA is commonly used in the lining of metal cans in order to protect food from contamination by metals such as lead or mercury. Unfortunately, research indicates that BPA can leach into food from these linings, potentially leading to health risks such as infertility, diabetes, obesity and cancer.
Conclusion:
Overall, while there are some potential drawbacks associated with eating canned food such as added sodium content and potential exposure to BPA, they can still be a healthy part of your diet when consumed in moderation and paired with other nutrient-rich foods like lean proteins and fresh fruits and vegetables. Be sure to read labels carefully when purchasing canned goods in order to select varieties that are low in sodium or free of BPA.
Is Canned Food Healthy?
In conclusion, while there are some drawbacks associated with eating canned food such as added sodium content and potential exposure to BPA; overall they can still be a healthy part of your diet when consumed in moderation paired with other nutrient-rich foods like lean proteins and fresh fruits and vegetables.