Whole food

Whole food refers to natural food that has not been processed or has been minimally processed, and is free from additives or other artificial substances. Whole foods typically include fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds, but can also include animal products such as meat and dairy, provided they are not heavily processed.

Definition

The term "whole food" is often used to distinguish foods that are unprocessed and unrefined, or processed and refined as little as possible, from processed food that often have additives such as preservatives, colorings, or flavor enhancers. Whole foods are often assumed to be foods that are not junk food, fast food, or convenience food.

Health benefits

Numerous studies have shown that a diet rich in whole foods can lead to a reduced risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. This is because whole foods contain a variety of nutrients that are often lost in the process of food preparation. For example, fiber, vitamin C, and potassium are often lost in the process of cooking. By eating whole foods, these nutrients are retained.

Whole food diet

A whole food diet is a diet that prioritizes eating whole foods. This can be a significant shift from diets that are high in processed foods, which are often high in sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats. A whole food diet can be beneficial for weight management and overall health.

See also

• Organic food
• Raw foodism
• Vegetarianism
• Veganism