There are a million and one (likely even more) “diet tips” out there that promise fast weight loss; that promise a total body change in 2 weeks; and yet all these promises are sadly, but actually, completely false. This article reveals some well-known myths as well as the others you’ve believed your whole life that have turned out to be untrue. Here are 10 eating myths you need stop believing, today.
Fat is Bad
Not all fat was created equal. There are saturated fats, polyunsaturated fats, trans fats; and then there are good fats such as Omega-3 fatty acids, olive oil, coconut oil and other plant-based fats, just to name a few. Fatty fish like salmon and tuna are great sources of healthy fats. So are nuts like almonds and walnuts. Chia seeds need to be soaked overnight before you eat them but they are also full of Omega 3’s and also contain protein. Healthy fats are necessary for our hearts, skin and brains to function properly.
Sugar is Evil
Just like fat, not all sugars are the same. It is also important to note that not everyone’s bodies’ process sugars the same way. People with high blood glucose readings should avoid sugar as much as possible. People with hypoglycemia, or chronically low blood sugar should eat throughout the day to keep their blood sugars stable. Sucrose is white table sugar. Fake sugars are just as damaging to people with glucose issues such as Sunett, Sweet One, Aspartame, Neotame, Isomalt, Saccharine, the list goes on and on. Natural sweeteners that are low on the Glycemic Index include Agave Nectar, Date Sugar, Honey and dark Maple Syrup. As with anything, use sugar with moderation or not at all.
Avoiding Carbohydrates
To maintain a healthy well-balanced diet, carbohydrates are an important component. Carbs that come from sugars, white flour and processed foods are all bad. But Complex Carbohydrates are necessary for brain health, blood sugar levels and a good source of fiber. These good carbs come from fruits, whole grain breads and pastas. Eating too few carbohydrates will leave you fatigued and constipated – no fun there.
Eggs are Bad For Your Heart
For people without cholesterol problems, eggs are a great source of Omega 3’s and protein. If you do suffer from high cholesterol, you can still eat eggs 1-2 times a week without harm. Eggs contain zero Trans fats which is the real enemy, not the eggs themselves.
You Need Milk
If you are only drinking or having your children drink cow’s milk for the calcium, well, there are several healthier ways of getting calcium as well as protein than cow’s milk. Soy milk, for instance, contains more protein and calcium than cow’s milk, a fraction of the fat and none of the dangerous hormones that are found in dairy milk. There is also plenty of calcium in green leafy veggies, fortified juices and beans.
8 Glasses of Water a Day
Myth! While it’s true that we need plenty of water every day, there is water in many of the foods we eat. Green tea, for example has so many nutrients and antioxidants in it that it is considered to be healthier than plain water! Drinking too much water can actually dilute the electrolytes in our bodies which is highly dangerous. In the medical profession this is called “drowning from the inside out;” the technical term is Hyponatremia.
Exercise Lowers Cholesterol
While this would be nice, it’s simply not true. Exercise does very slightly boost HDL (good cholesterol) but has zero effect on LDL (bad cholesterol). Dietary changes and sometimes medications are necessary to effectively lower your LDL.
We Need Meat
We do not need meat. The myth is that we must eat meat to get enough protein in our diets. It’s simply not true. There are vegetables, beans, fruits and grains that all contain plant-based proteins that are far healthier than fatty animal meat.
Organic Food is a Trend
Some people believe that buying and eating organic foods and produce is nothing but a trend. This is false. Organic foods contain no pesticides, no harmful fertilizers, no hormones and are good for the earth as well as our bodies. Buying local organic produce also supports your local farming economy which helps everyone. Organic foods are more expensive because no shortcuts are taken when raising it. Isn’t it worth paying a little more to eat real food that actually nourishes our bodies while still protecting the economy and planet?
Soy Products are Harmful
The myth here is that consuming too many soy products elevates estrogen production to unhealthy levels. The truth is that women who consume soy milk and tofu actually decrease their chances of developing breast cancer, and that among women who have had breast cancer the ones that consume plenty of soy actually have a lower rate of recurrence.
Hopefully we have helped debunk these food myths for you. Knowing the truth and being an informed consumer is the best way to lead a healthy, active lifestyle for you and your family.
Source: Fitness Republic
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