There are few things more fundamental to human nature than eating. Without this essential fuel, our bodies can’t sustain themselves for very long. Unfortunately, our modern way of life has led many to choose poor dietary options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner alike.
Making the right food choices can be a struggle – especially when we’ve been conditioned to love foods that are bad for us. While there are many wholesome foods out there that are absolutely delicious, there are also some very healthy options that can scare away diners due to their taste, smell, or appearance.
Whether you’re looking for a challenge or just enjoy the ick factor, let’s look at some gross menu selections that provide real and amazing health benefits for those who eat them.
Octopus![]()
All too many people get squeamish around seafood, but there is probably no better example of something that can gross you out than an octopus. This delicacy is a common food in many coastal cultures around the world, but the combination of its noodly appendages and the fact that it’s often served raw is a bridge too far for many.
While its texture is gummy and gooey at the same time, the health benefits of octopus are numerous. Completely packed with protein and rich in vitamins such as iron and B12, this gross cuisine effectively qualifies as a super-food in many circles.
Durian Fruit![]()
There are few fruits in the world that genuinely repel those who eat them. However, those who have not yet come into contact with the durian may find themselves caught off-guard.
This unique fruit has a pungent stench that resembles the air found around a water treatment plant. Despite its offensive smell, the fruit is actually mild and sweet in terms of taste. Furthermore, it offers a plethora of vitamins and even has as much protein as an egg.
Kimchi![]()
Another food that very well may turn the stomachs of those not used to it, kimchi is a unique Korean dish that incorporates various vegetables. As Examined Existence reports, kimchi is essentially a variety of pickled and seasoned vegetables that have been allowed to ferment for long periods of time.
This gives it a unique stench – one that originates from the way in which it is prepared. Historically, people would bury the vegetables in the ground and let them decay for months at a time. However, the preparation process is a bit more refined these days. That doesn’t mean that the fiber-rich, nutrient-loaded food is any more palatable for most who have not grown up with it.
Livers![]()
All across the world, many people have enjoyed livers in one form or another as a delicacy or side-dish. The thought of eating something that exists solely to filter toxins out of the body can make anybody’s skin crawl, but the benefits of doing so are rather good.
Regardless of the type of liver, this common form of cuisine features a ton of protein, essential acids and vitamins. Additionally, even though the liver is used to filter these toxins out of the body of the host, they are not actually stored or found in the cooked or raw liver itself.
Even if we can’t all agree on what tastes good or is appealing, most people find these four foods to be a bit jarring at a minimum. Nevertheless, the health benefits they provide make them well worth the effort if you do decide to eat them. Everybody is different, however, so maybe one or more of these foods will actually be an enjoyable delicacy if you do decide to try them out!
The post Absolutely Gross Cuisine That’s Amazingly Healthy for You appeared first on Health & Fitness Blog.