Pantry foods! The last resort is when you’re in a pinch. Whether boxed, canned or in a pouch, these convenient staples are a given in every kitchen’s pantry.
It wouldn’t be too far to say that they are every woman’s friend in need! But are all pantry items ‘friends’ or are some of them ‘foes’? And are there some items that are just on the fence? It’s important to distinguish between the good, the bad, and the occasional treats.
Let’s explore:
🌟 Friends in the Pantry:
‘Friends’ are those you can count on, those you’ve got your back! We have three special foods in this category, so let’s dive right into it. Not only are they anti-inflammatory, they are also easy on the wallet. So, the next time you make a delicious savory dinner, be sure to add this great friend to your metabolism!
Onions:
Packed with vitamins B6, C, and potassium.
No sodium, fat, or cholesterol.
Anti-inflammatory and budget-friendly.
Turmeric:
Contains curcumin, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.
A staple in South Asian kitchens.
Use in moderation for a health boost.
Avocado Oil:
High smoke-point, ideal for cooking.
Rich in healthy fats and vitamin E.
Supports heart health and protects against neurodegenerative diseases.
Chia Seeds:
High in fiber, amino acids, and Omega-3 fatty acids.
Promotes heart and intestinal health.
Easy to incorporate into meals.
Want it all on one sheet? Grab our free ‘friends vs foes’ pantry cheat sheet!
Gimmie The Pantry Cheat Sheet!🤔 Occasional Friends (Frenemies!):
And now we come to ‘Occasional Friends’ – the ones you have in your life but cannot really count on.. Even with their long and impressive list of benefits, these can be occasional treats and should be eaten in moderation. Some of these could cause a spike in blood sugar and some could increase inflammation.
Maple Syrup:
Nutrient-rich but high in sugar.
Enjoy in moderation.
Nuts (Unsalted):
Healthy but watch out for sodium content.
Avoid processed oils.
Peanut Butter:
Tasty but often contains added sugars and fats.
Consume sparingly
Sweet Potatoes:
Full of carotenoids and low on the glycemic index.
High in carbohydrates; cooking methods can increase glycemic index.
Don’t Miss it! You can grab our list of the top 12 pantry foods to optimize for free!
Gimmie The Free Pantry Food ‘Swap’ List!⚠️ Foes in the Pantry:
And now we come to the ‘foes’ that hide out in your pantry, tempting you and calling your name when you come looking for a late night snack!These fake friends trigger inflammation and alter normal metabolism, the gut microbiome, and blood vessels in ways that promote type 2 diabetes, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and high blood pressure.
Potato Chips:
High in sodium, trans fats, and carcinogenic properties.
Linked to various health issues.
Coffee Creamers:
Contain oils, sugar, and harmful additives.
Opt for natural alternatives.
Artificial Sweeteners:
Promote inflammation and metabolic issues.
Worse than sugar in health impacts.
Sugary Cereals:
No nutritional value, high in sugar.
Can lead to acne, weight gain, and Type 2 diabetes.
Make That Pantry Work For You!
With so much noise out there, it’s hard to figure out the right answers. Countless articles and blogs, a million enticing commercials, innumerable opinions! It’s easy to get overwhelmed and be led in the easy direction. Now, more than ever, it is critical to stay well-informed so you can make the right decisions the next time you go grocery shopping. Choose wisely for your health!
