Scientists create the healthiest meal ever

You know it's time for a change when even the presenter of Man v Food decides to scale back his eating.

So while the insidious power of melted cheese, crispy bacon and juicy beef might continue to haunt your dreams, science is coming to the rescue. Again.

Food researchers (best job ever) looked into around 4,000 health claims used by manufacturers and supermarkets and found just 222 which were judged to have some scientific fact. They then assembled a menu from their findings which they claim resembles the epitome of healthy eating.

Scientists at Leatherhead Food Research, an independent British organisation, focused on Omega 3 fish oils and folates which boost brain activity.

It all looks something like this:

Starter: Fresh and smoked salmon terrine with a mixed leaf side salad with extra virgin olive oil dressing and a high fibre multiseed roll

Main course: Chicken casserole with lentils and mixed vegetables - low in saturated fat and sodium

Dessert: Live yoghurt-based blancmange topped with walnuts and sugar-free caramel sauce

Drink: Pure spring water or cranberry, elderflower and raspberry multivitamin electrolyte sports drink

The researchers are also aware that snacking is inevitable, no matter how strict your diet may be, so have also put together a list of acceptable post-dinner treats.

Snacks: Velvety hot chocolate, walnut snack pack, activated charcoal tablets, a mixed berry meal replacement shake and sugar-free spearmint chewing gum

And now the science bit...

The fish starter contains docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) which is good for the arteries, heart and brain while the salad helps maintain blood cholesterol levels. The protein from the chicken casserole helps for muscle mass growth and the lentils aid mental performance.

The dessert is good for digestion and for your teeth while the surprise inclusion of hot chocolate is for melatonin which helps you get to sleep quicker at night.

Tempted?

[via Daily Mail]

(Image: Rex Features)