Nutrition Rich Cookies?

By Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom

Have you heard about the new “nutrition-rich” cookies called WhoNu?, as in “who knew delicious could be so nutritious?” Each 3-cookie serving contains 3 grams of fiber, as much calcium and vitamin D as a glass of milk, and as much vitamin C as a cup of blueberries. With added iron, vitamin B12, and others, it has “a total of 20 essential vitamins and minerals.” With each WhoNu? cookie weighing in at about 50 calories - the same as an Oreo or Chips Ahoy - it sounds like a winner, right? But let’s take a closer look.

I always get concerned when “food worlds collide,” meaning that treat foods take on a health food halo. Sometimes a cookie is just a cookie. And taste is important. The major problem with the WhoNu? cookie, for me, is the taste! Although it looks like a cookie, my taste buds don’t perceive this as tasty as all! Sure, like other fortified (nutrient-added) foods, these cookies DO provide a small nutritional boost, but is that why we’re choosing a cookie?

If most of our food choices are healthful – lots of fruits and veggies – providing nature’s nutrients, it’s not a problem to have a daily treat of up to 150-200 calories. And by treat, I mean something that you really enjoy, without worrying about the nutrient density.

Because millions of people carry so much guilt about eating a non-nutrient rich treat, products like WhoNu? cookies are developed. The perception of a treat soothes the guilt, but not the taste buds! So, give yourself permission to be a smart indulger – and when you’re looking for a treat, choose a small portion of something you really want – and enjoy it! That’s the best way to sustain a healthy eating style without deprivation!