#EatingWell

A new consumer-friendly analysis from nutrition outlet EatingWell is putting familiar foods back in the fiber spotlight — and challenging the idea that beans are always the gold standard. The roundup identifies six everyday options that meet or beat beans on fiber per typical serving: chia seeds, avocados, green peas, artichokes, raspberries and lentils, with black beans used as a benchmark at about 7.7 grams per half cup cooked. For Thai readers, the timing is apt. Multiple studies show the average fiber intake in Thailand hovers far below recommended levels, a gap linked to higher risks of heart disease, diabetes, and gut problems. The good news: several of the listed foods are easy to source locally or swap with Thai equivalents, making it realistic to close the country’s “fiber gap” without overhauling traditional eating patterns.

A new wave of research-supported attention is casting a spotlight on foods that have long flown under the radar, overshadowed by trendy “superfoods.” According to leading nutritionists cited in a recent investigative feature by AOL, foods like celery, prunes, and sardines offer surprising health benefits that deserve a regular place on our plates, especially for Thai consumers interested in boosting health in affordable and practical ways (AOL).

While apples and bananas are celebrated for their convenience and accessibility, they’re not the only ingredients delivering essential nutrients. As one New York-based assistant dean from a health professions school explains, eating a broader range of foods exposes us to a richer diversity of vitamins and minerals—and can also brighten up our culinary routines. This is particularly relevant in Thailand, where local diets often centre around a handful of well-loved fruits, vegetables, and grains, but might overlook some globally recognized powerhouses.