Eating Smart
Italy is famous for its delicious food, but not everything is great for your health. If you want to enjoy your time in Italy and feel your best, here are some foods to avoid while traveling.
Foods to Avoid When Visiting Italy
1. Processed Foods
When in Italy, you will find many fresh and tasty foods. Try to avoid processed foods, like frozen meals or packaged snacks. These often have added preservatives, unhealthy fats and high levels of sugar. Instead, enjoy fresh pasta, homemade sauces and local cheese.
2. Heavy Cream Sauces
Italy is known for its creamy pasta dishes, but heavy cream sauces can be hard on your stomach. Foods like Alfredo or carbonara can leave you feeling bloated. Try lighter options, such as tomato-based sauces or olive oil with herbs. These are delicious and better for your digestive health.
3. Fried Foods
While fried foods can be tempting, they are not the best choice if you want to stay healthy. Items like arancini (fried rice balls) or fried calamari may sound tasty, but they can be high in unhealthy fats and calories. Choose grilled or baked options instead, like grilled vegetables or fish.
4. High-Sugar Desserts
Italy is known for its desserts, but many of them can be loaded with sugar. Foods like tiramisu or cannoli are delightful, but they can also lead to a sugar crash. If you want something sweet, consider fresh fruit or a small serving of gelato. Gelato is lower in fat than ice cream and still a treat.
5. Sugary Drinks
When visiting Italy, you might be tempted to drink sugary sodas or sweet cocktails. These drinks can add empty calories and lead to weight gain. Instead, enjoy sparkling water or a nice glass of Italian wine. Italy has a rich wine culture, and there are many local options to try.
6. Large Portions
Italian meals are often served in large portions, especially in tourist areas. Be careful not to overeat, as this can lead to discomfort. Share dishes with friends or family to enjoy a variety of flavors without feeling too full. You can also ask for smaller portions or a "mezzo" size if available.
Food and Wine Tours in Italy
If you want to enjoy Italy’s amazing cuisine while learning about local traditions, consider taking a food and wine tour. Here are three great places to explore:
1. Florence
Florence is known for its rich history and culture. A food tour here will take you through bustling markets and charming streets. You can taste local cheeses, meats and olive oil. Don’t forget to try the famous Florentine steak!
2. Tuscany
Tuscany is famous for its vineyards and beautiful landscapes. A wine tour in Tuscany will let you taste some of the best wines in Italy, like Chianti and Brunello. Many tours also include stops at local farms, where you can sample fresh pasta and homemade sauces.
3. Siena
Siena is a charming medieval city with a strong food culture. On a food tour, you can try traditional dishes like pici (thick pasta) and panforte (a rich fruitcake). The local markets are full of fresh ingredients, and you might even get to learn how to cook a Tuscan dish yourself!
Enjoying Your Time in Italy
Italy offers wonderful food and beautiful landscapes. While it’s easy to indulge in all the tasty treats, be mindful of what you eat. By avoiding processed foods, heavy cream sauces and large portions, you can enjoy your trip while staying healthy. Don’t forget to take a food and wine tour in Florence, Tuscany or Siena for a memorable experience. Enjoy the flavors of Italy, and have a fantastic time!
Read on to learn more about which type of foods to avoid while traveling.