Substances the consumption of which is advocated by various reform movements, including vegetable foods, whole grain cereals, food processed without chemical additives, food grown on organic compost, supplements such as bees’ royal jelly, lecithin, seaweed, etc., and pills and potions. Numerous health claims are made but rarely is there evidence to support these claims.
A misnomer since certain nutrients in quality and quantity are essential for maintaining health. No food is necessarily more healthful than another except in terms of its nutritional value, and whether or not it has been contaminated.
Food that is regarded as good for health, especially containing ingredients such as cereals, dried fruit and nuts and without additives.
A general term often used to refer to foods that are unprocessed, whole, or organically grown or that are free of additives, hormones, antibiotics, pesticides, and waxes. Health foods have become increasingly available in most supermarkets as well as specialty stores. Because there is no standard, legal definition of health foods or natural foods, it is important to read the labels of foods touting health benefits. Doctors recommend close evaluation of the fat, calorie, sugar, and salt content of health food. For example, additive-free ice cream may still be high in fat, and granola is often heavily coated with sugar and high in fat.
This term is used to describe any food products believed to support or enhance health.