Now that fall has arrived and the weather is getting colder and wetter, it’s especially important to take good care of yourself. Healthy nutrition plays a crucial role in this, but there are many misconceptions about what is truly good for your body. In this article, I debunk some common myths about nutrition and share practical tips to strengthen your defenses, so you can navigate the fall with energy.
Facts and myths about healthy nutrition
Fruit juice is just as healthy as eating whole fruits.
Myth. While fruit juice contains vitamins, it lacks the fiber you get when eating whole fruits. These fibers help keep your blood sugar levels stable and provide a longer-lasting feeling of fullness. Fruit juice can also contain more calories than you might expect. It’s therefore better to eat whole fruits to benefit from both the fiber and the vitamins.
Plant-based eating is always healthier.
Myth. It’s true that plant-based eating is better for the environment, but not all plant-based products are automatically healthier. Processed foods like plant-based burgers can contain a lot of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Additionally, it’s important to get enough iron. Plant-based iron sources like spinach and legumes are good alternatives, but they are absorbed less effectively than iron from meat. Combine plant-based iron with vitamin C, such as bell peppers or citrus fruits, to improve absorption.
Avoiding carbohydrates helps with weight loss.
Myth. Carbohydrates are essential for your body as they are the primary source of energy for your brain and muscles. Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, vegetables, and legumes, are digested slowly, providing long-lasting energy, stable blood sugar levels, and a feeling of fullness. They also contain the fiber, vitamins, and minerals your body needs.
Simple carbohydrates, such as white bread, white rice, and cookies, are quickly broken down, leading to spikes and drops in your blood sugar levels. This can cause you to feel hungry sooner. Completely avoiding carbohydrates can lead to fatigue, concentration issues, and an unbalanced diet. Therefore, opt for unprocessed, slow-digesting carbohydrates that provide sustained energy and contribute to healthy satiety.
Sourdough bread is always a healthier choice.
Myth. Sourdough bread has a healthy image, but not every sourdough bread is automatically better. The key is choosing whole grain bread, whether it’s sourdough or not. Whole grain bread contains more fiber and nutrients than white bread and helps you stay fuller for longer. Whole grain products contribute to stable blood sugar levels and fit better into a healthy eating pattern.
Want to learn more about healthy eating?
Healthy nutrition doesn’t have to be complicated. By making conscious choices and distinguishing facts from myths, you can optimally support your body. If you have questions about how to improve your eating habits or would like personalized advice, feel free to contact me for a no-obligation conversation. Together, we’ll find what works best for you.