DEBUNKING DIET MYTHS

DEBUNKING DIET MYTHS

Myth 1: Cut out carbs to lose weight

You need to understand Carbohydrates before you eliminate them entirely from your diet. For instance, not all carbs are bad, and in fact, a diet high in Complex Carbohydrates has been found to help with overall weight loss. This includes replacing refined grains with whole grain and minimally processed grain products and eating more fruit and vegetables, which may help reduce the risk of both Type 2 Diabetes and Heart Disease.

 

Carbs that aren’t always good for you are refined carbs, i.e. white bread, white rice and pasta.

 

Myth 2: What your diet doesn’t give you, a Vitamin Pill will

 

Multivitamins cannot replace wholesome, nutritious food. Except for a few exceptions like Folic Acid and Vitamin D, the vitamins and minerals that you get from whole foods, have a definite edge over any nutrients in a pill. For instance, the key components in broccoli and cruciferous vegetables have been found to have health benefits such as helping prevent certain cancers and decreasing inflammation in the body. As some alarming evidence suggests that calcium supplements increase the risk of heart attack, and other studies hint that dietary supplements, including multivitamins, folic acid, iron and copper, appear to be associated with an increased risk of death in older women, it’s wiser not to self-prescribe any vitamins, but to seek your Doctor’s advice before taking any supplements.

 

Myth 3: Don’t eat eggs if you have high cholesterol

 

Eggs are, in many ways the ideal food. Some studies even suggest that regular egg consumption may be linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, because of the high level of antioxidants in eggs. Yet other studies have indicated that eggs may actually help lower blood pressure as well. In addition to their antioxidant properties, eggs are a protein-rich, low calorie, economical and easily available food. If you are suffering from high cholesterol, it might be advisable to reduce your intake of eggs (fewer than 4-6 per week) rather than cutting them out of your diet altogether.

 

Myth 4: Artificial sweeteners are an ideal substitute for real sweeteners

 

Unfortunately, current research indicates that there is a possible link between the consumption of artificial sweeteners and weight gain, including the risks that go with it.

Why soda with artificial sweeteners causes weight gain isn’t 100 percent clear, but some studies have suggested that the body may process sweets – artificial or otherwise – in a similar manner. In any case, if your body is deprived of natural sugar it will continue to crave it, and you will find yourself drinking more diet soda in order to suppress the craving. Always consult your Doctor before making dietary changes that could affect your health.

 

Myth 5: For more nutrients, don’t cook your veggies

 

Before making any sweeping claims that raw is better than cooked veg, determine which foods must be cooked. Greens retain their nutrients when they are steamed. Boiling vegetables tends to deplete nutrients. Garlic is most beneficial eaten raw. Cook your tomatoes and then cut them.

But before making any dietary changes or altering your dietary regimen, consult your Doctor or Nutritionist.