One of the biggest myths associated with today’s food is the manner of its preparation. Although for many of us a microwave is an essential element in our kitchen, there are others who oppose its use.

The main talk against microwaves is that they destroy all the nutrients in the food.

But if you think better, would spinach lose more nutrients if we cook it for a few minutes in a microwave or if we cook it the “traditional” way?

Read below to find out about the health benefits and dangers of microwave cooking.

We should further take into account the fact that certain nutrients are broken down precisely when exposed to high heat.

According to the , microwave cooking can be more energy efficient than conventional cooking because foods cook faster and the energy heats only the food, not the whole oven compartment. Microwave cooking does not reduce the nutritional value of foods any more than conventional cooking. In fact, foods cooked in a microwave oven may keep more of their vitamins and minerals, because microwave ovens can cook more quickly and without adding water.

Vitamin B and Vitamin C are susceptible to water and heat, but research shows that vegetables cooked in a microwave can keep these vitamins better than boiled or steamed vegetables.

However, there is one more concern when it comes to microwave cooking, and that’s food radiation.

According to the , microwaves are a form of “electromagnetic” radiation; that is, they are waves of electrical and magnetic energy moving together through space. Electromagnetic radiation ranges from the energetic x-rays to the less energetic radio frequency waves used in broadcasting. Microwaves fall into the radio frequency band of electromagnetic radiation. Microwaves should not be confused with x-rays, which are more powerful.

Microwaves have three characteristics that allow them to be used in cooking: they are reflected by metal; they pass through glass, paper, plastic, and similar materials; and they are absorbed by foods.

Scientists warn about another element which is very important when using the microwave. It’s the dishes in which you cook the food. Be sure to always use containers that are made of materials that are allowed to be put in a microwave, otherwise you could endanger your health.

So, is microwave cooking safe? Well, we presented both positive and negative sides, so we’ll leave it up to you to decide.

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