We’ve all been advised about healthy food choices, but is everything we’ve heard true? While some of these claims seem reasonable, they are often more myth than fact. Here we look at some of the food and health myths that are perpetuated every single day.
Eggs Cause High Cholesterol
While egg yolks do contain cholesterol, it is important to understand that cholesterol is manufactured by the body. When we take in cholesterol via our food, our body simply produces less cholesterol. Eggs contain a host of vitamins, minerals, protein, and healthy fats that are vital for growth, brain function, and healthy eyes, hair, and skin. Don’t shy away from eggs just because you think they might hurt you.
Dairy is Best for Your Bones
Dairy products and milk, in general, aren’t the end-all-be-all of calcium. Explore other options. While dairy products do provide the calcium needed to prevent osteoporosis, kale contains even more calcium than milk and spinach comes in at a close second. Dried fruits, tofu, and leafy green vegetables are all excellent calcium sources.
Carbs are Bad
We’ve been led to believe that carbs are bad because they make us fat when the truth is that too much of any food can cause us to gain weight. What is important to know is that we need to differentiate between good and bad carbs. White bread and rice are devoid of many of the nutrients and fiber found in their whole grain counterparts. Choosing whole grain bread, oatmeal, and rice contribute to lower cholesterol and a smaller waistline while providing energy and keeping us mentally sharp. Consider healthy whole grain options from Klosterman Baking Company next time you are at the grocery store.
Multigrain and Whole Grains are Equal
Whole grains are rich in vitamins, minerals, and the fiber that keep us feeling full longer. Multigrain simply means more than one grain has been used to produce a product. When reaching for a loaf of healthy bread, be sure the label says whole grain.
Margarine is Healthier Than Butter
Calorie for calorie, margarine and butter are close. The problem with margarine is that it is often made with the trans-fats that are responsible for contributing to elevated cholesterol levels. While butter has received a bad rap in the past, many nutritionists are once again recommending it over margarine as a healthy option for those at risk.
Fat-free and Low-fat Versions are Better for You
When it comes to packaged snack foods, these versions are often much worse than their full-fat counterparts. The reason is that food manufactures make up for the lack of fat by adding more of the unhealthy ingredients like salt and sugar for flavor. You are better off opting for whole foods because these snacks lack the nutrients that causes you to feel full thus creating the desire to over consume.
Fresh Veggies are Best
While fresh vegetables are a healthy food choice, there is a common misconception that frozen and canned veggies are subpar when the truth is that while they are often preserved immediately upon harvesting, fresh veggies have spent time traveling and sitting in the supermarket. This causes the release of enzymes that aid in a loss of nutrients.
As you can see, we often need to consider the full story before we believe the food claims we hear. Our health might just depend on it.
