The world of healthy eating is wrought with misinformation, confusing claims, and downright myths. How do you know what is full of crap and what to believe? Here are 5 common myths about healthy eating that just aren’t true:
Myth #1: You can’t get enough protein on a plant-based diet.
Regardless if you are vegan, vegetarian, or are just trying to reduce your meat consumption, you probably have heard the question, “where do you get your protein?” Believe it or not, you don’t need meat to get enough protein! Beans, nuts, seeds, and grains like quinoa and brown rice are great alternative sources of protein. Plus, a healthy diet that is high vegetables like kale, peas, and mushrooms will help ensure you are getting enough protein -- without the animal products.
Myth #2: Olive oil is good for you.
Adding olive oil to your food is virtually the same as adding empty calories. Olive oil is just another source of fat and adds over 100 calories for every tablespoon you use. Especially if you are trying to lose weight, olive oil is something you want to stay away from. And if you think that olive oil is what makes the Mediterranean diet healthy, you may want to check out this article.
Myth #3: Healthy food doesn’t taste good.
If you are used eating foods with high sugar, salt, or fat contents, then switching to plant-based meals can seem a little… boring. But don’t give up on your greens just yet! Taste is learned, and if you are committed to a healthy lifestyle you can retrain your taste buds. Besides, I dare you to try this zesty chicken and kale dish or these no bake thumbprint cookies and then say otherwise.
Myth #4: You need milk for strong bones.
Were you told as a kid or as a parent that you or your children need to drink milk to get enough calcium for strong bones? According to Dr. Furhman, “when you eat a healthy diet, rich in natural foods such as vegetables, beans, nuts, and seeds, it is impossible not to obtain sufficient calcium.” Try adding leafy greens like spinach, kale, or collard greens to your next meal for a calcium boost!
Myth #5: Healthy eating is too expensive.
Buying a fast food burger is cheaper than buying a salad -- that’s probably true. But eating out in general gets expensive, and you’ll save money by cooking your own meals. Plus, eating out all the time makes it easy to fall into a habit of eating what’s convenient, not what’s healthy. Cooking your own food gives you the perfect opportunity to make healthy meals! Try one of these 14 tips for eating healthy on a budget or learn how to shop for under $65 a week.
Did any of these myths surprise you? Working with a health coach is a great way to increase your knowledge about healthy eating and make lasting lifestyle changes! Schedule a free 30 minute session with one of our coaches to dispel other common food myths.
Sources:
Group Start Program, Lecture 4, p. 9 (Nutritional Education Institute, Dr. Joel Fuhrman)
Dr. Fuhrman
