Proper nutrition must be observed all the time because it is vital in maintaining optimal health. Our bodies need it in order to function properly, so we need to make sure that the nutrients we get from the food we eat will help us maintain a healthy body and help us sustain a long life.
One misconception people make about nutrition is that for something to be nutritious, it should not be delicious; and, conversely, delicious food may not be nutritious. This belief is what causes people to think that cakes are an indulgent and decadent dessert with little to no health benefits.
Cakes can be made using flour and fruits as filling; margarine or butter for that rich and creamy taste; sugar to enhance its sweetness and appeal to kids; liquid for mixing, eggs as a binder; leavening, for the dough to rise; and frosting, for added aesthetic appeal. By knowing these major ingredients, we can then get an idea of what nutrition a slice of cake has in store for us.
Carbohydrates for Energy
With the flour and the sugar present in cakes, it can provide much needed carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are energy-giving foods that keep us alert for longer periods of time. Carbohydrates, especially those from glucose sub-units, are what the brain needs for energy.
Fiber for Digestion
Fruits like pineapple, carrots and apples, are just some of the fruits that can be incorporated in the filling or the body of the cake. These fruits, aside from their natural sweetness, also help us get the fiber we need for better digestion. Bananas, which have these fibers, too, can help promote growth of good bacteria in our intestines--for combating bad bacteria and restoring balance to our digestive rhythm.
Fats for Warmth and Energy
Cake is an excellent source of fats and oils through its shortening and frosting. These fats in cakes are needed, albeit in small amounts, for body energy and a source for body heat for the winter or cold months.
Proteins for Body-building
Cake also contains protein nutrients from the eggs that are used as a binder for all ingredients. Cakes typically also contain milk, which also has proteins that provide us with the needed nutrients for strong bones and muscles. Milk also contains the needed minerals like calcium, for us to have strong bones and teeth. For cakes with real fruits in them, they have intact vitamins from fruits like pineapples, apples and berries, which can help fight diseases and strengthen our immune system.
Serotonin and Endorphin Levels
Cakes that come frosted with chocolates or nuts increase the serotonin and endorphin levels in the body. This literally makes us happy. This helps promote better ways of living and is great for managing anxiety.
With the nutrition behind a piece of cake, there is no reason to blame it for unwanted curves. Remember to have control over what we eat and get all the necessary nutrients.
