ua en ru

5 nutrition myths most people believe in

5 nutrition myths most people believe in Illustrative photo (Freepik)
Author: Maria Kholina

Healthy and balanced eating is crucial for one's well-being. However, there are some food myths that are completely at odds with reality, yet many people still believe in them, according to Schweizer Illustrierte.

Breaking the myths about nutrition is essential for a better understanding of dietary habits. Here are some myths you should be wary of.

Myth 1: Dark bread is healthier than white bread

Contrary to popular belief, the color of bread doesn't always indicate its healthiness. Many dark bread varieties achieve their color through additives like caramel rather than being made from whole grains like rye or whole wheat. It's important to read the ingredients list to ensure you're getting the nutritional benefits you seek.

Myth 2: All fats are harmful to the body

This statement oversimplifies the role of fats in our diet. While saturated fats found in fast foods can be detrimental to health, unsaturated fats present in foods like avocados and fish are essential for bodily functions. Like carbohydrates and proteins, fats play a crucial role in both physical and cognitive well-being.

Myth 3: Citrus fruits are the ultimate source of vitamin C

While citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are indeed rich in vitamin C, they are not the top contenders. Peppers, particularly bell peppers, contain significantly higher levels of this essential nutrient. It's important to diversify your diet to ensure you're getting a wide range of vitamins and minerals.

Myth 4: Carbohydrates lead to obesity

The demonization of carbohydrates isn't entirely accurate. It's the type of carbohydrates that matters. Whole grains containing bran and germ provide lasting energy and aid in digestion, unlike refined carbohydrates found in white flour and sugar, which offer little nutritional value and can contribute to weight gain when consumed in excess.

Myth 5: Drinking two liters of water per day is a must

While staying hydrated is crucial for overall health, the "two-liter rule" isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Factors like climate, physical activity, and individual body composition influence hydration needs.

A better approach is to listen to your body and drink according to thirst cues. A general guideline is to aim for approximately 30 milliliters of water per kilogram of body weight per day, but this can vary based on individual circumstances.

This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.