“So, if I’m cooking, I’ll be steaming vegetables, making some nice salad, that kind of stuff.” – Paul McCartney
When I envision celebrities’ lives (which I seldom do) I imagine that they are using the services of a professional chef who serves them their delicious meals on fine china, etc. Possibly that is true for some, but most of us familiar with Sir Paul’s lifestyle are not surprised by his quote here. While I imagine he enjoys a lifestyle that affords many perks – among them a personal chef – I believe he also eschews deep-fried foods in favor of a more natural eating plan on a consistent basis.
So, what about us? I sometimes do not know whether to laugh or cringe when I see those restaurant menu items which include deep-fried veggies. We feel good about ordering a menu item which, ostensibly, is supposed to be good for us although the item is soaked in who-knows-what type of cooking oil. In general, Americans consume about 40 percent of their diet in fried foods according to the National Library of Medicine. In particular the frying of starchy foods makes the chemical acrylamide which is linked to different types of cancer.1
Some of us have turned to air fryers to enable us to enjoy the flavor and consistency of the fried foods we have come to know and love over the span of our lives. (My grandmother fried everything it seems, and those Sunday comfort food dinners were quite tasty although I was already on my way to the “dark side” of becoming a vegetarian. “Fried chicken? Uh, no thank you, Grandma!”) Air fryers can certainly take up the task of providing the alternative to oil-based frying but essentially should be used in moderation.
Back to Sir Paul …
I agree with his choice of steaming vegetables. This will enable the food to retain the necessary nutrients which your body not only needs, but truly craves. Steamed vegetables will provide the complex carbohydrates and vitamins such as C, B, and other antioxidants. Enjoying steamed vegetables will provide you with soluble fiber and make that fiber more easily digested. Steaming is actually quite simple, and most vegetables can be prepared in that manner. You may use a steamer which you purchase, or simply use a wire basket over the simmering water and your vegetables will soften and retain their flavor. Combine your dish with a spice you like and your palate will thank you!
Of course, a fresh salad with a good quality lettuce or other greens and possibly some protein source as well should be a part of our eating plan. Tofu is one alternative, or if you add chicken or seafood, I encourage you to identify your source to ensure that it is cleanly raised and antibiotic free.
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.