March is National Nutrition Month, and many of us are struggling daily with healthy eating. Eating healthy can be easy once you find foods that you like and find your own rhythm. However, there are many myths that we should stop believing. Once you are informed about the reality of healthy eating, you and your body will be thankful.
1. “Carbs will make you fat”
While it’s true that many sugary and refined carbs found in things such as doughnuts, white bread, and pasta will cause health problems, cutting out the so called “good carbs” will be depriving your body of many important nutrients. The good carbs are also your body’s main source of fuel, so the lack of these foods will cause your body to be fatigued and you will have a hard time maintaining weight loss.
2. “You have to count calories to lose weight”
It’s more important to focus on what food you are putting in your body rather than the specific calorie count. One-hundred calories worth of soda, French fries and cupcakes is not the same as eating 100 calories of rice and vegetables. In this situation, the calorie count means nothing. If you’re eating the right foods, you can lose weight without worrying about every single calorie.
3. “All fats are bad for you”
What fats you are eating will make a big difference in eating healthy and seeing the results. Healthy fats such as monounsaturated and fatty acids can promote cardiovascular health. Some healthy fatty foods include avocados, olive oil, nuts, and fish. There are recommended amounts to stick by when consuming fatty foods which can help you plan your meals ahead of time.
4. “Being a vegetarian is always healthy”
It absolutely can be, but it is not a guarantee. Eating a plant based diet can have a lot of health benefits, but omitting meat can lead to a lack in intake of proteins which can have certain consequences in terms of vitamins and nutritional value. Make sure you are getting protein from other sources. It’s all about the foods you are eating.
5. “Egg whites are healthier than whole eggs”
The truth is that the yolk holds all the nutrition in the egg: 40% of the protein and 90% of the calcium, iron, and B vitamins. It also contains all the soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. Eating the whole egg will keep you more satisfied and feeling fuller for longer.
6. “Artificial sweeteners are a better choice than sugar”
There is mixed research on this subject, but some studies have shown that artificial sweeteners may change your perception of sweetness, causing you to crave higher levels of sweetness (meaning you’ll consume more). There is also evidence that it alters your gut bacteria. You’re better off staying away from highly sweet foods and sticking to fruit and unsweetened drinks.
Here’s to being healthier and happier, collegiettes!