How to Eat the Nutrient-Rich Way

Naturally Nutrient-Rich

Most Canadians eat an abundance of foods, but many of us don't get the nutrients we need for good health. It's a paradox – being overfed yet undernourished. It's thought that failing to eat enough nutrient-rich foods may be part of this problem. Here's the scoop on this simple nutrition concept.

Naturally Nutrient-Rich Defined

This term refers to the amount of nutrients in a food compared to the calories it contains (nutrients versus calories). Naturally nutrient-rich foods have high levels of nutrients, such as protein, vitamins and minerals, for the number of calories they provide. Naturally means the food is nutrient-rich just as it is, without anything added (i.e. without fortification or enrichment).

Eating well is simple really. Focus on a healthy variety of nutrient-rich foods as set out by Eating Well with Canada's Food Guide. These include:

• Colorful vegetables and fruit
• Whole grain and enriched grain products
• Lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, beans and nuts
• Lower fat milk products and alternatives

Decisions, decisions

Sometimes the choices are obvious but not always. For example, you might dismiss both the burger and fries as junk food. The reality is the burger is naturally nutrient-rich. A lean beef burger (not the super-size deluxe version), provides about 180 calories plus significant amounts of many key nutrients, such as protein, iron, zinc and vitamin B12. An order of fries with about the same number of calories lacks considerable nutrients. Choose foods that offer more bang for your bite.

Lean on Canadian Beef. Bite for bite Canadian beef is a nutrient rich choice for you and your family. Watch our video or visit our FAQ page.