Saturday, September 5, 2009

Food vs. Nutrients

Do we need food, or just nutrients? According to some, my human nutrition professor included, we just need the nutrients. But where has this thinking really led us? We no longer consider what it is that we are putting in our bodies, just the chemical make up and daily values that will get us closer to our "perfect" diet. Where did we go so wrong? It has gotten to the point where people would actually consider eating balanced meals at McDonald's everyday would get them the nutrients necessary for life. Technically this food will give you certain amounts of nutrients, but at what cost? Protein, fat, and carbohydrates are all accounted for and packaged into a meal that would still look the same if left to sit out for two weeks! Shelf life is important here. Buying and consuming food that will spoil sooner than later and doesn't come in a box or some type of plastic packaging should be the name of the game, with an emphasis on should. Modern convenience and laziness has led to people making everything out of a box or microwavable bag of some type. Why shouldn't we focus on the actual food we eat? If you eat the proper foods, would it not follow that the nutrients will also be there?