Have you heard about the Nordic diet?
Apart from it being an environmentfriendly diet, experts also suggest that it is one of the healthiest diets around
Variety in the culinary world isn’t restricted to the calorie-laden dishes, the very mention of which makes one’s mouth water. There’s a lot that the health-conscious can dig into. There are numerous diets that many people swear by, that helps shed those extra kilos. So, what’s the latest health food trend? The Nordic diet is the answer.
As the name suggests, it’s all about eating foods that are consumed in Nordic countries such as Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. With nutritionists Kavita Devgan and Tapasya Mundara’s help, here’s all you need to know about it.
ORIGIN
While the Nordic diet has been around for a while, it was in a way revived by Nordic chefs (with their own touch to it) in 2004, with the aim to increase its popularity and culinary appeal, but it’s only now that it’s making waves.
WHAT IT INCLUDES
The diet lays emphasis on fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, herring along with berries, root vegetables such as potatoes and carrots; and nuts, legumes, low-fat diary and grains. Also, there is no scope for processed foods and highfat meats such as sausage or bacon. It’s one of the healthiest diets because it emphasises on plant-based foods. The breads consumed are made with wholegrain barley, oats and rye. In Denmark, a dark sourdough bread called Rugbrød is popular. In Sweden, Wasa crispbread, made from whole grains, is a staple. Both breads are a good source of fibre, multivitamins and antioxidants.
In Nordic diet, the lunch is light, and includes rye breads, salads, fermented products, pickles and herrings along with vegetables. For dinner, the emphasis is on fish along with vegetables. At times, the food is served with umami paste to add flavour.
DIFFERENT FROM MEDITERRANEAN DIET
The similarities between Nordic and Mediterranean diet are that they both focus on plant-based foods. However, the difference is that in a Mediterranean diet, olive oil is used whereas in Nordic, rapeseed oil (canola oil) is used.
SUSTAINABILITY FACTOR
Since it focuses on local and fresh ingredients, this diet is considered to be environment friendly. Plant-based diets use fewer resources and create less pollution compared to meat-based diets. Besides, eating locally produced food reduces energy consumption and food waste.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Due to its low-sugar and salt content, the World Health Organisation has praised the diet for helping lower the risk of cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It also helps lower blood pressure, reduce weight and maintain good gut health.