Recent studies showed that supplements can’t provide the same amount of nutrition as real food. (Read more about that here!) In short, to get proper nutrition, people need to eat the proper foods. From little ones who are being taught the right foods to fuel a healthy life to adults looking to shed a few pounds this summer, it’s all about selecting nutrient-dense foods. These are the building blocks of a solid diet that keeps hunger at bay and fuels a healthy body. The Traina family shares why nutrient-dense foods are so important — as well as some delicious ways to enjoy them.

One of the biggest complaints of those that are dieting is that they are always hungry. However, nutrient-dense foods pack a punch of fiber, which keeps people feeling fuller longer. Fiber also keeps the digestive system working as effectively as possible, which is a great benefit for a healthy gut. The Traina Home Grown® line of dried fruit products are an easy, delicious and convenient way to fill up with fiber.

Another issue when it comes to proper nutrition is trying to fill up on “empty calories.” Pre-packaged snacks or over-processed foods may taste good at the time… but a few minutes later, they may leave noshers feeling a bit empty. That’s because these foods are high in artificial flavor but lack the nutrients needed to effectively fuel the body and keep one feeling full.

For those teaching their little ones how to nourish their bodies properly so they have the energy they need to play all day, giving them a lesson on nutrient-dense foods is a great start! This can be done by making the right kind of eating fun and delicious. Think no-sugar-added yogurt parfaits sprinkled with Traina Home Grown® fruitons and homemade granola, or a kid-friendly charcuterie board of sorts featuring whole grain crackers, string cheese, nuts and seeds, dried fruit and ham or turkey roll ups. (Tip: This is an easy and quick lunch for busy parents, too — and kids learn so much by simply watching what their role models, aka Mom and Dad, do!)

According to the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans Eighth Edition, over the past century a “history of poor eating and physical activity patterns have a cumulative effect and have contributed to significant nutrition- and physical activity-related health challenges that now face the U.S. population.” This and the fact that diet-related health problems, including obesity and diabetes, are at high levels can be attributed to poor nutrition. The organization’s Healthy U.S.-Style Eating Pattern recommends two cups of fruit per day, including “fresh, canned, frozen and dried forms” as well as a variety of vegetables from “all five of the vegetable subgroups — dark green, red and orange, legumes (beans and peas), starchy and other.” 

When it comes to eating a healthy, fruit-forward™ diet and enjoying nutrient-dense foods, Traina Home Grown® keeps the menu interesting with an endless variety of dried fruit options that can add flavor and nutrients to a multitude of meals. For recipes, tips and more, visit www.trainafoods.com.