Leo & Leah

Hugh Kim

We eat and drink every day, yet the question “What should we eat?” remains constant. Whether planning a dinner party, dining out with family, or just deciding on a meal, the choice often revolves around taste and nutrition. My blog posts have emphasized that the flavors and nutritional value of food are rooted in its molecular composition, illustrating the omnipresence of science in our daily lives.

“Yes, that’s the point.”

However, it’s unnecessary to ponder the Maillard reaction while eating steak or the porous structure of fried food while enjoying tempura. Similarly, you don’t need to think about capsaicin and TRP channels while eating spicy food, or about myrcene in beer, pyruvate and ethyl acetate in soju, and guaiacol in whiskey while drinking. But knowing these scientific details can enhance your appreciation of food.

While writing about the six major nutrients, many conclusions may seem ambiguous. You might wonder, “Should I eat this or not?” This series of posts aims to review the extensive research underlying our daily food choices. Highlighting the six major nutrients, including water, I discussed issues I encounter daily, summarizing research findings and presenting diverse perspectives rather than definitive conclusions. Despite scientific advancements, much remains unknown. Numerous research problems must be solved to ensure a safe and abundant future for humanity. However, four key points about food are clear:

Moderate consumption of addictive foods and beverages: Limit sugary drinks, whether juice or soda, to one or two servings per day, and avoid daily consumption. Drink alcohol sparingly; abstain for at least three days after drinking.

Limit trans fats and sodium intake: Fast food, fried foods, and baked goods often contain trans fats. Avoid consuming the broth in instant noodles, soups, and stews to stay within the daily sodium intake limit.

Avoid extreme diets: Completely eliminating carbohydrates, fats, or proteins is unhealthy. Research shows that low-carb diets can shorten lifespan. Balanced consumption of all nutrients is crucial for health.

Increase vegetable and fruit intake: Our bodies need more dietary fiber.

These points might seem obvious, and indeed, they are well-known recommendations. I often hear them during regular health check-ups from my primary care physician. Despite writing this post, I struggle to follow these simple guidelines consistently. Before each health check-up, I worry about potential adverse results and briefly adhere to these principles afterward, only to revert to old habits after a few weeks. Yet, keeping these points in mind helps me moderate excessive drinking or caffeine consumption and encourages me to eat an extra serving of vegetables.

Bad things can happen suddenly, but preventing them requires consistent effort. Although our actions are limited, maintaining these small efforts is crucial for preserving our health. This series of posts may have its shortcomings, but I hope it conveys that daily life is a product of science and that many researchers are continuously working to improve it. I hope this series of posts has given you a new perspective on the science of everyday life. Stay healthy.