The International Day of Education, celebrated on January 24, is observed to celebrate education and recognize the invaluable contribution it makes in our society.
Education is at the heart of any successful society. It helps to create a more equitable, just, and peaceful world. It is essential for sustainable development as it promotes economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection. On this International Education Day, we would like to throw some light on essential facts about the food we eat so that we are mindful of what goes into our body.
Importance of Food in Our Daily Lives
Food and diet are important for providing the body with the essential nutrients and energy it needs to function properly. When we eat healthy food, it helps to keep our body stronger and maintain a healthy weight.
Eating healthy diets can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and some types of cancer. Eating a variety of foods from all food groups also helps to ensure that the body is getting all the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients it needs to stay healthy.
Interesting Food Facts this International Day of Education
Food affects our health and behaviour. It might be overlooked but knowing more about healthy foods to eat is important to maintain a healthy life. Here are some of the most interesting food facts you must know:
1. Chocolate is Healthy
Chocolate is a rich source of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins which can help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol, and improve overall health. Dark chocolate, especially, is high in flavonoids, which are plant-based antioxidants that protect the body from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, the magnesium and iron in chocolate help keep your energy levels up and can even reduce stress levels.
2. Eating with Hands is a Healthy Habit
Using your hands to eat is a healthy habit because it has been shown to help you better understand the food you are consuming as you are more in tune with the sensations and textures. Eating with your hands can also help you slow down and savour your meal, which can lead to better digestion, improved satiety, and slower eating speed. Additionally, it can help you better practice portion control as it’s harder to overeat when you are using your hands to scoop and plate your food.
3. Honey is Bee Vomit
Honey is a sweet, thick liquid made by honeybees from the nectar of flowers. The bees store the nectar in their honey stomach and convert it into honey through a process of regurgitation and evaporation.
4. White Chocolate is Not a Chocolate
White chocolate is not considered real chocolate. It is made with cocoa butter, sugar, milk solids, and sometimes vanilla but it does not contain the chocolate solids that give milk and dark chocolate their distinct flavours.
5. Carrots were Not Originally Red
Carrots were originally purple and yellow. The red carrots were developed through the selective breeding of wild carrots. The original colour of wild carrots is usually white, purple, or yellow, and the red colour was achieved by breeding the carrots with purple and yellow carrots. These red carrots were then introduced to the Mediterranean region from where they eventually spread throughout the world.
6. Most Expensive Fruits are in Japan
Japan is known for having some of the most expensive fruits in the world. Some of the most expensive fruits in Japan include melons, grapes, and pears, which can cost up to $200 each. Other expensive fruits in Japan include persimmons, peaches, and apples which can cost up to $100 each.
Conclusion
It is clear that there is much to learn about the food we eat. From the origins of specific dishes to the health benefits of certain ingredients, the facts surrounding food can be both interesting and informative. Knowing more about healthy foods to eat can help us make better choices and can also add to the enjoyment of our meals and this International Day of Education is here to remind you about the same.
