There’s a bumper crop of nutrition myths on the Internet these days.
So, if your source of diet information is primarily from a search of random websites, blogs or social media posts, chances are what you read is often inaccurate, and may even be harmful to your health.
It’s terrific that so many folks are enthusiastic about sharing what foods — either eaten or avoided — worked to improve their personal health. But, that doesn’t make them a reliable source. “The public has become enamored with nutrition and wellness bloggers,” writes registered dietitian Janet Helm in her blog, Nutrition Unplugged. “These bloggers don’t have scientific credentials, but are photogenic, happy and energetic, skilled at Instagram and bold with statements.”
Here’s a sampling of some popular nutrition myths.
Myth #1: Coconut oil is a cure-all.
Fact: Coconut oil is touted as good for everything from making your hair shiny to boosting your brain and bone health. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration sent a stern warning to marketers of coconut oil over misleading claims. It's also high in calories, with 120 calories per tablespoon. Consuming coconut oil in Thai and other recipes won't harm your health, but downing coconut oil daily probably won't improve it either.
Myth #2: Diet soft drinks make you fat.
Fact: While studies have reported those who drink diet beverages are more likely to be overweight, it doesn't prove that diet beverages cause weight gain. People who are overweight use more diet beverages, compared to normal-weight individuals.
They may even help dieters. A 12-week study published in the journal Obesity, showed that subjects who drank diet beverages reported feeling more satisfied and lost, on average, 13 pounds, compared to 8.8 pounds lost among the water-only drinkers.
Myth #3: Fresh produce is healthier than canned.
Fact: Canned fruits and vegetables are canned within hours of picking to lock in nutrients. Studies show that people who eat canned foods have healthier diets because they're consuming more produce servings. Canned fruits and vegetables are affordable, convenient and sometimes (as with canned tomatoes) even higher in nutrients than the fresh version.
Myth #4: Carbs make you fat
Fact: Studies show people who eat a high carb diet are often the least likely to be overweight. Poor quality carbs like table sugar may contribute to weight gain but higher-quality carbs made with whole grains provide fiber, antioxidants, B-vitamins and minerals that we need for good health.
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