5 Food Myths Debunked

It's no surprise that nutrition is a big part of my life. I am currently obsessed with my Women's Health subscription and don't know why I hadn't ordered it earlier. I am an avid reader of their daily emails and tips and I like passing on and educating those around. So, you're welcome :)

Myths you can now forget—

Myth 1. High protein intake is harmful to your kidneys

What science really shows: Nearly 2 decades ago, Dutch researchers found that while a protein-rich meal did boost GFR, it didn't have an adverse effect on overall kidney function. In fact, there's zero published research showing that downing hefty amounts of protein—specifically, up to 1.27 grams per pound of body weight a day—damages healthy kidneys.

The bottom line: As a rule of thumb, shoot to eat your target body weight in grams of protein daily.

Myth 2. Sweet potatoes are better for you than regular potatoes

What science really shows: White potatoes (french fries and potato chips) and sweet potatoes have complementary nutritional differences; one isn't necessarily better than the other. For instance, sweet potatoes have more fiber and vitamin A, but white potatoes are higher in essential minerals, such as iron, magnesium, and potassium.

The bottom line: The form in which you consume a potato—for instance, a whole baked potato versus a processed potato that's used to make chips—is more important than the type of spud.

Myth 3. Red meat causes cancer

What science really shows: No study has ever found a direct cause-and-effect relationship between red-meat consumption and cancer. As for the population studies, they're far from conclusive.

The bottom line: Don't stop grilling. Meat lovers who are worried about the supposed risks of grilled meat don't need to avoid burgers and steak; rather, they should just trim off the burned or overcooked sections of the meat before eating

Myth 4. High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is more fattening than regular sugar is.

What science really shows: Both HFCS and sucrose—better known as table sugar—contain similar amounts of fructose.

The truth is, there's no evidence to show any differences in these two types of sugar. Both will cause weight gain when consumed in excess.

The bottom line: HFCS and regular sugar are empty-calorie carbohydrates that should be consumed in limited amounts. How? By keeping soft drinks, sweetened fruit juices, and prepackaged desserts to a minimum.

Myth 5. Salt causes high blood pressure and should be avoided.

What science really shows: Large-scale scientific reviews have determined there's no reason for people with normal blood pressure to restrict their sodium intake. Now, if you already have high blood pressure, you may be "salt sensitive." As a result, reducing the amount of salt you eat could be helpful.

The bottom line: Strive for a potassium-rich diet (Because it's really the balance of the two minerals that matters)

which you can achieve by eating a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and legumes. For instance, spinach, broccoli, bananas, white potatoes, and most types of beans each contain more than 400 mg potassium per serving.

There it is folks— five of some of the biggest myths debunked. If you want to read more, click here.

Studying to get my nutrition and wellness certification, I'm learning so much and it's opening up a whole new world for me— and I'm loving it! I hope you get as much out of this as I do- don't forget to pass it on. Knowledge is one of the best things we can do for our minds AND bodies.

ENJOY AND HEALTHY EATING!