The basic variations of a health conscious diet
Odds are you do a lot of cooking at home if you’re enrolled in a culinary arts program online. All of your time in the kitchen might have you concerned about your health, but don’t fear, for there are a number of diets that allow you to enjoy delicious culinary offerings without putting on extra pounds. In fact, most modern diets are expansive enough that they leave room for chefs to make delicious desserts without straying outside the guidelines. For example, whereas gluten-free products were once unpalatable due to their texture, now gluten-free bakeries make some of the most renowned pastries in the country. With the right diet, you don’t have to sacrifice health or taste. You can have your cake and eat it too. Here are four diets that focus on healthy living while also leaving any avid cook open to an endless array of culinary possibilities.
Raw
The raw food diet might sound a bit unrefined and intimidating at first, but this eating ideology puts a strong emphasis on the importance of fruits, vegetables and nuts. While many raw food followers are vegan, there are a number of meat and dairy options that fall under this diet. Those following this lifestyle reap the nutritional benefits of raw and organic produce every day. Raw cocoa, in combination with fruits and nuts, allow chefs to create a wide range of delectable raw desserts.
Paleo
This diet gets its name from referencing the Paleolithic era. That is, anything you eat on this diet must be a food that was available to a caveman. It might sound unorthodox, but this diet has a strong focus on consuming meat, fish, eggs, fruits and vegetables. The concept of this diet is based on our species’ rich history as hunter-gatherers. With that said, there are ton of great meal options that can be prepared for those following this diet, but paleo diners don’t eat grains, processed foods or dairy.
Vegan
The vegan diet is very balanced and offers many health and environmental benefits. Vegans don’t consume any animal products, including eggs and dairy. While this diet may seem more limiting, there are numerous ways to mimic the culinary qualities of eggs, milk and meat. [maybe give a quick example of things that can be used]
Gluten-free
The gluten-free diet has become increasingly popular, especially as the food quality for these dieters has skyrocketed in recent years. Those on this diet simply avoid gluten, a common ingredient found in grains and therefore products such as bread and pasta. Luckily, gluten-free offerings are plentiful. Today, those on this diet can enjoy gluten-free beer, bread, baked goods and more.
