Much of what we hear about what to eat and what not to eat is simply marketing rather than solid medical research. Here are a couple of examples from Charles Stuart Platkin, founder of Integrated Wellness Solutions.
Fad: “Whole grain” foods in all categories must be healthy.
Fact: Fiber and some nutrients are removed from refined foods, and “whole grains reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and certain cancers.”
Fiction: “Most whole grain products do not have fewer calories than products made with white flour. But while switching from refined grains to whole grains is great, some of us are simply eating too much of them.”
Fad: Cereal made with yogurt must be healthy.
Fact: Low-fat yogurts have many reported health benefits.
Fiction: “The assumption that the yogurt coating is somehow channeling the health perks of regular yogurt is not accurate.”
Fad: Low-fat, low-carb foods must be healthy.
Fact: Some low-fat, low-carb foods are better, but not always.
Fiction: Many low-fat, low-carb foods add sugar or fat for taste and end up with the same calories. We tend to eat more, “to overindulge because it’s ‘diet food.’”
