kokonaisruokayhdistelmästä

Kokonaisruoka, meaning "whole food" in Finnish, refers to food in its most natural state, unprocessed or minimally processed. This concept emphasizes the consumption of ingredients as they are found in nature, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. The idea is that processing, whether physical or chemical, can diminish the nutritional value of food and potentially introduce additives that are not beneficial for health.

Advocates of a kokonaisruoka approach believe that by eating whole foods, individuals are more likely to consume a wider range of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. This dietary pattern is often associated with improved health outcomes, including better weight management, reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes, and enhanced overall well-being.

Examples of kokonaisruoka include eating an apple instead of apple sauce, choosing brown rice over white rice, or opting for raw vegetables rather than pre-packaged salads with dressings. While the definition can be somewhat flexible, the core principle remains the avoidance of refined sugars, refined grains, processed meats, and foods with long ingredient lists containing artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. The focus is on simplicity and the inherent goodness of natural ingredients.