There are always more myths than truths when it comes to health and nutrition. To keep you on track here are the 3 top food myths:
1) High-fat foods are unhealthy
Take a trip to your local grocery store and you’ll find a variety of products labelled “low fat” and “fat free.” While these products are tempting to those wanting to shed excess body fat, they’re typically an unhealthy choice.
Research has shown that many low fat and diet items contain much more added sugar and salt than their regular-fat counterparts. It’s best to forgo these products and enjoy small amounts of foods like full-fat yogurt, cheese, and nut butters
2)Non-nutritive sweeteners are best for your health
The rising interest in sugar-free foods has led to an increase in products that contain non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS). While it’s clear that a diet high in added sugar significantly increases disease risk, intake of NNS can also lead to negative health outcomes.
For example, NNS intake may increase your risk of type 2 diabetes and lead to negative changes to gut bacteria.
3) Carbs make you gain weight
Well pretty much anything will make you fat if you eat too much of it. But that’s the wrong way to think about it. Starchy carbohydrates come in two forms: refined and whole. The latter are the ones to go for – higher in fibre and full of other essential vitamins and minerals. In fact, far from making you gain weight, eating high-fibre foods will help to keep you feeling full, which means you are less likely to overeat.
Instead of cutting carbs out, make some smart switches and cut down on the unhealthier carbs, like highly refined flour products.
The bottom line
Although the nutrition world is full of myths separate fact from fiction and don’t fall for these nutrition myths!
Written by Hayley Cimring (RD)(SA) Registered Dietician
Picture: Pixabay