Can You Grow to Like Healthier Foods?

You probably can't change a strong aversion to carrots or other foods you've always disliked. But it is possible to improve the nutritional content of your diet in enjoyable, flavorful ways. Start with these strategies:

• Learn about good nutrition. Surveys indicate that people who are nutrition conscious are more likely to try novel foods.
• Identify foods you like in all the food groups. Skip the spinach if you truly hate the taste. There are plenty of other leafy greens, including romaine lettuce, kale, and Swiss chard.
• Cultivate your nose. Take time to smell food as it cooks. And eat slowly. Holding food in your mouth longer gives you a better chance of tasting and smelling it. Studies show that odor pleasantness significantly correlates with a liking for and willingness to try foods.
• Try other tricks to increase the flavor of food. Consider colors, textures, shapes, and temperatures. For instance, if it's the consistency of yogurt you don't like, try adding granola or dried fruit.
• Exercise regularly. One study showed that women exercisers between the ages of 18 and 24 were more likely to eat healthy foods than nonexercisers.
• Cut back on fat. After following a reduced-fat diet for 12 weeks, adults in one study rated fatty foods as less pleasant than they did before the diet.

Finally, learn about healthy ways to sweeten or enhance foods. For instance, sweeten meats with sauces made from fruit, nectars, or jams. Or enhance vegetables with olive oil, crushed garlic, and spices.