5 weird foods that are actually good for you

You probably know that there are some pretty weird foods out there. But do you know which of them are good for your health? 

Today you’ll hear about five exotic foods from around the world. Some may sound weird or even disgusting, but they’re all popular. And they’re all incredibly beneficial for your health! 

So keep on reading — if you dare.

Kimchi

Kimchi’s not just some new-age superfood that fitness celebrities are pushing. It’s been a staple in Korean cuisine for at least 1500 years, and kimchi’s health benefits have been known for decades.

Kimchi is a side dish of salted and fermented vegetables — mainly cabbage, but also radish, ginger, garlic or chilli. 

Fermented foods are back in the spotlight thanks to their many health benefits. They contain probiotics — beneficial bacteria that improves the gut flora.

It usually takes 2–3 weeks to notice the positive effects of probiotic bacteria. So, consider ordering a can of kimchi from your local Korean restaurant or enjoy Korean cuisine a couple of times a week. 

Check out beloved local Korean restaurants on Bolt Food.

Edamame

Edamame beans are young, green soybeans cooked (usually boiled), still inside the pod. And while eating unripe soybeans may sound odd, they’re a popular side dish and a great low-calorie snack!

Edamame is rich in quality plant protein and healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. It’s also packed with fibre, vitamins, and minerals — some in higher concentrations than in mature soybeans.

And numerous studies have listed the many health benefits of soy protein, including reducing ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol. 

Edamame beans are a Japanese staple, so check out the restaurants at Bolt Food.

Cod liver oil

You may remember cod liver oil or fish oil from your childhood as it’s recommended for child development. But given cod liver oil’s distinctive taste and smell, those memories may not be the best! 

Cod liver oil and fish oil contain vital fat-soluble vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids that offer many health benefits — from preventing cardiovascular disease to aiding with depression and arthritis, as found in this study.

The good news is that you can get your vital omega-3 fatty acids without the notorious fish oil burps. Simply follow the general guidelines of eating fish or seafood two times a week. 

Find something delicious and healthy from your local seafood restaurant.

Ayran

First mentioned in the 11th century, ayran is a non-alcoholic Turkish beverage consisting of yoghurt, cold water, and salt. It can also include spices for flavour and may even be carbonated, so it definitely deserves its place on the list of weird foods.

Ayran lovers claim it’s the ideal drink to quench your thirst on a hot day and that it’s also good for your health. Ayran provides hydrating electrolytes, calcium, and other vitamins and minerals. 

The yoghurt provides beneficial probiotic bacteria that will help your digestion. That’s probably why ayran often accompanies grilled meat on a hot summer’s day. 

Ayran is an acquired taste, but try it the next time you order some delicious Turkish kebab to make the feast easier on your stomach. 

Ask about ayran from your nearest Turkish restaurant.

Indian gooseberry

Indian gooseberry or amla is native to Southeast Asia and the Middle East. This exotic fruit is bigger than the European gooseberry and so sour that you may even want to eat it with spices. 

Amla has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. Research is now looking into its many health benefits, including its neuroprotective and antidiabetic properties.

This extensive research found that the Indian gooseberry is the most potent berry globally in terms of antioxidant content. 

Antioxidants are compounds that neutralise the free radicals in your body that damage cells and cause various health problems like cancer. One hundred grams of fresh Indian gooseberry provides up to 600 mg or 700% of your daily vitamin C intake!

But don’t be sad if you can’t find this exotic fruit at your nearest smoothie bar. Other common berries like blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are rich in vitamins, minerals, fibre, and bioactive compounds that can reduce inflammation and the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer. 

Get all these healthy nutrients by ordering a smoothie from your local smoothie bar.

Did any of these weird foods spark your curiosity?

Enjoy these foods and their many health benefits by making an order in the Bolt Food app. 

If you are into healthy eating, check out the healthy grocery shopping list we have prepared for you.