Nutritionist Rhiannon Lambert is advocating for the benefits of frozen food, pointing out that frozen produce can be more nutritious than fresh options. She mentions the nutritional quality of frozen meat, fish, broccoli, edamame, spinach, and sweetcorn. Frozen meat can retain both nutrients and flavor, avoiding nutrient and flavor loss that can occur in fresh meat over time. Freezing fish preserves heart-healthy fatty acids like omega-3s. Frozen broccoli has a super boost of essential vitamins and antioxidants, often containing more riboflavin compared to fresh broccoli.
Edamame, when bought frozen instead of peas, can provide additional benefits due to the added soy content. Recent research has found that isoflavones in soy can enhance attention and processing speed in school-aged kids. Frozen spinach is rich in vitamins K, C, calcium, and folate. Buying it frozen preserves its nutritional value for longer, as compared to fresh spinach which can quickly lose nutrients after a few days. Sweetcorn is also better bought frozen as it retains more vitamin C than fresh corn. Lambert aims to educate the public about the benefits of frozen food and dispel the misconception that it is inherently unhealthy.
However, not all frozen foods are beneficial for health. Ultra-processed frozen foods like frozen dinners have been linked to a higher risk of premature death, heart disease, colorectal cancer, obesity, depression, and other serious conditions. These foods tend to contain high levels of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, which can be inflammatory and drivers for various health issues like obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. It is essential to be cautious about consuming these types of frozen foods and choose healthier options when possible.
Frozen food can provide a convenient and nutritious option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Lambert emphasizes the importance of educating the public on the benefits of frozen food, especially in retaining nutrients and flavor. By making informed choices when selecting frozen foods, individuals can optimize their nutrient intake and minimize the risk of developing chronic health conditions associated with consuming unhealthy ultra-processed frozen options. Prioritizing whole and minimally processed frozen foods can contribute to a well-rounded and balanced diet that promotes overall health and well-being.
