….but not many do.
One of the most frustrating things about working in nutrition is the fact that — although it’s based on evidence-based research of the hard sciences — it is surrounded by a TON of false information that isn’t based on science at all. The worst part is that the general public prefers to eat up the wrong facts, and tune out the science.
Recently there have been a few lists about lesser known nutrition facts. So, this is my list of nutritional facts that EVERYONE should know about, but most don’t know or don’t believe.
20 nutrition facts that everyone should know…but don’t.
- You should never — NEVER — trust mainstream media for your nutrition information. If it doesn’t come from a dietitian (that does not include: celebrity trainer, blogger without credentials, Dr. Oz, or any media personality that doesn’t have an advanced degree in nutrition), it shouldn’t be trusted. Nutrition is a science and should be respected in that light; it requires years of evidence-based research, something that those personalities have zero consideration for.
- “Organic” does not mean “healthy” — just because something is organic does not necessarily mean it’s a health food.
- Whole milk and whole milk products are beneficial for your health and may even aid in weight loss.
- Junk food is literally addicting, and can target the same areas of the brain as cocaine.
- Trans fats were not invested to be eaten…yep, gross.
- The food consumed by pregnant women influences their baby’s risk for disease and health even before they get pregnant! (So, eating unhealthy and then getting pregnant may influence your future child’s health!)
- Fast weight loss sets you up for failure. Studies have shown that the slower a person loses weight, the more likely they are to keep it off.
- Most people are vitamin D deficient and should take a daily supplement. Vitamin D is also a super underrated vitamin and a crucial for good health.
- Eating fat does not make you fat.
- And on that note, eating cholesterol does not increase your cholesterol.
- The number and kind of bacteria in your gut can not only determine your health, but also your risk for chronic diseases and longevity, your brain, and your weight. The best way to improve the health of your gut bacteria is probiotic supplementation or consumption.
- Low-fat foods are less “healthy” than low-carb foods. Research is beginning to debunk the stigma against fat, finding that most fats are not bad for you, and may even be beneficial for your health. They also keep you fuller and satisfied longer, whereas carbs leave you hungry shortly after. Low-fat foods are typically higher in carbs, and low-carb foods are higher in fat, making them “healthier” (if you have to choose one).
- Egg yolks are not the enemy. Come on guys, egg whites are sooo 2012. The yolk is packed with all the vitamin and nutrient goodies!
- Intermittent fasting may prevent cancer and other diseases and make chemotherapy more effective.
- Fruit juice is just as bad as soda. (Those healthy looking green smoothies that taste amazing and sugary?! Well, they’re pumped with unhealthy sugars.)
- Eating small meals frequently does not boost your metabolism!
- The average number of calories consumed at a buffet is 2,500! (Gross!!!)
- Supplements are not as effective as consuming foods with vitamins and minerals.
- The longer you cook vegetables, the more nutrition content of them is lost.
- Adding citrus to tea boosts its antioxidant capacity (so adding lemon to green tea makes its antioxidant qualities stronger).
xo
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