These days, there’s a ton of info about

nutrition—and let’s be honest, a lot of it’s pretty misleading.

Myth 1: Carbohydrates are bad for you.

Carbohydrates have been unfairly vilified in various diet trends. In reality, carbohydrates are a primary energy source for the body, especially the brain. The key is to choose complex carbohydrates found in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, which provide essential nutrients and fiber. Limiting refined carbohydrates and added sugars, is ideal as they really don't do anything good for our bodies. Even if they do taste great.

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Myth 2: You gain weight by eating fats.

Many people are under the misconception that fats cause them to gain weight. Avocados, nuts, and olive oil are all good fats necessary to derive nutrition from foods, produce hormones, and maintain health. You don't necessarily gain weight from consuming good fats in moderation. It's actually consuming too many grams of any nutrient, including good fats, that results in gaining weight.

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Myth 3: Gluten-Free Diets Are Good for Everyone

Unless diagnosed with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, there's no medical necessity to eliminate gluten from your diet. Whole-wheat products containing gluten are rich in B vitamins and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet. Adopting a gluten-free diet without medical indication can lead to unnecessary dietary restrictions and potential nutrient deficiencies.

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Myth 4: Snacking Causes Unwanted Weight Gain

Snacking can be included in a balanced diet if you snack the proper way. Snacking in moderation, such as nuts and yogurt, assists you in maintaining energy and prevents you from consuming too many calories at meals. You ought to consider the manner in which you snack.

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Myth 5: All Calories Are Equal

Calories show us the amount of energy in food, but what the calorie comes from really do matter. Foods that are good and nutritious, such as vegetables, fruits, and lean meat, provide the minerals and the vitamins we all need to function well.  However, foods high in added sugars and bad fats are bad if eaten in excess, despite having the same calorie count. Something I struggle with constantly with my sugar tooth!!

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Myth 6: Nighttime Eating Causes You to Gain More Weight

The time you consume food matters less than how and how many foods you consume. You gain weight if you consume more calories than you are expending, regardless of what time you are eating. Eating later in the day, at least occasionally, often encourages you to snack in ways you normally wouldn’t, so choose wisely if you are eating later in the day. I personally have a fast metabolism and find myself eating small amounts throughout the day. Everyone is different so what works for one may not for another. I encourage you to never stop trying new things and you never know you might just learn something new about yourself.

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Myth 7: A detox diet purifies the body.

The body detoxes naturally, and the liver and kidneys are the main organs involved in the detox. The use of detox diets and cleanses isn't scientifically shown and isn't necessary to detox. The body detoxes naturally through a balanced diet and s8taying hydrated. I often think a lot of people are chronically dehydrated and have just become accustomed to it. I still find that I struggle to drink enough water everyday but like everything it's a process.8 

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Myth 8: Avoiding meals assists you in losing weight.

Skipping meals, in turn, leaves you hungry and could result in you eating excessively later. This upsets your energy and metabolism. A balanced, regular meal helps maintain steady blood sugar and good metabolism. Watching the size of the portions and eating nutritious foods is a healthier means to maintain your weight. I am a chronic junk food junkie so eating healthy has been a long journey that I'm still working to achieve. My advice is to start with little things like cooking with healthier oil or if possible, using an air fryer or replacing daily snacks with apple slices or banana chips and making a gradual transition so as not to deprive yourself completely. It truly is a lifestyle change and like all changes will take time and patience. Just never stop trying!!

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Myth 9: All foods low in fats are nutritious.

Foods labeled 'fat-free' are often not necessarily healthier. Especially when eaten in excess due to us telling ourselves because its "fat free" its safe. The foods typically have added sugars, salt, and refined starches in them. This means you are consuming additional calories and less nutrition. It is essential to read the label and choose whole, less-processed foods in order to actually achieve the nutrition you're seeking.

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Myth 10: You Need to Abandon Your Favorite Foods to Lose Weight 

Removing your favorite foods from your diet leaves you feeling deprived, and you end up having trouble sticking to it in the long run. Including your favorite foods in moderation, from time to time, makes eating healthily fun and manageable. The trick to eating a balanced and healthy diet lies in moderation. Like I mentioned earlier its a process like most good things in life.

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By clearing up some of the misconceptions, you are in a position

to grasp nutrition and, in turn, choose smarter and healthier. 

Let me know your thoughts in the comment section below.