If you’ve ever been on a weight loss journey, I bet you’ve read some bad nutrition advice. With the popularity of fitness and weight loss influencers, you can find all kinds of advice around every corner. You can even find studies that seem to completely contradict each other. This makes it hard to know what to do, especially if your goal is to get healthy. Read on to explore some of the most common nutrition myths.
Carbohydrates have gotten a bad rap lately. However, they’re essential for energy and brain function. You need some carbohydrates to get the nutrients you need. Not all carbs are created equal. If you’re looking for a healthier way to enjoy carbs, look to whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and avoid empty calorie sources like sugary snacks and white bread.
While some fats can take a toll on your health, especially when consumed in excess, some fats are beneficial. Fats found in certain animals, like cows and pigs, can be detrimental. However, fatty fish contain essential omega-3 fatty acids. Plant-based fats like those found in avocados, nuts and olive oil can help you feel full and provide nutrients that aren’t found in other places.
Skipping meals may appear to be the fast track to reaching a calorie deficit. However, skipping meals can actually slow down your metabolism. It can also lead to cravings for high-calorie options. Balanced meals and healthy snacks throughout the day can help you maintain energy levels and prevent overeating.
Organic foods are grown and processed using natural methods. For produce, this means certain substances and additives are not used in the growing or processing. In meat, these regulations require being raised in natural living conditions, being fed organic feed and not being administered antibiotics or hormones. While this often means the food is more sustainable, it doesn’t necessarily make a major difference in terms of the health value. Some foods, like blueberries, are better organic because fewer pesticides are used on the small plants. However, the nutrition facts don’t vary much. If conventional foods fit better within your budget, skip the organic section.
If you’re missing out on specific vitamins and minerals in your diet, supplements can help. When you’re on a calorie deficit, taking supplements can be especially beneficial. However, they can’t replace a balanced diet. Nutrients need to come from whole foods to be properly absorbed. The nutrients from foods are also higher quality than those you may find in supplements. If you rely on supplements alone, your body may flush out the nutrients you need.
Now that you know the truth behind the most common nutrition myths, it’s time to start making healthier choices. Remember, food is meant to nourish you. Eating healthy is all about balance. As long as you’re mindful about what you eat and when, you’re on the right track.
