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Social media and the internet have become our primary sources of information these days. Whatever we see on Instagram reels and YouTube shorts these days becomes the gospel truth for us. It's not very often that we check the legitimacy of the facts and information shared with us. Diet and healthy lifestyle have become one of the most intriguing topics of discussion for the people of this time.
As much as people have become conscious about their health, there is still a lack of awareness about healthy eating practices and lifestyles. Consequently, many times we adopt the so-called healthy habits which contribute negatively towards our health. Let's look at some of the common myths about healthy eating and why you should maintain a distance from them.
1. Plant-based foods cannot give you enough protein
Protein, also known as the bodybuilding food, is one of the most essential nutrients for our body. Most dieticians and doctors recommend taking a certain amount of protein in all the meals of the day. Meat-based protein is the preferred type of protein source because of the higher amount of protein and lower amount of fats. However, it doesn't mean that you cannot get enough protein from vegetarian or vegan sources. Some of the best sources of plant-based protein include soya, tofu, and many types of lentils. The best part is that plant-based sources of protein do not have high levels of cholesterol that increase your chances of having bad cardiovascular health. As per a report published by Harvard Medical School, red meat like pork, beef and lamb should be especially avoided as they are high in saturated fats.
2. Weight loss means eradication of carbohydrates and fats
Eliminating carbohydrates and fats is one of the most common practices adopted by people to lose weight fast. What is important to note is that as soon as you resume eating carbohydrates and fats, all the weight that you have lost will be gained back. Losing weight by eliminating certain types of foods is not sustainable in the long run. You need to have all the nutrients on your plate to have a healthy body.
A report by Michigan State University says that not only do carbohydrates and fats give us the energy to perform tedious tasks but also help us in our process of recovery from these activities. Try to cut junk out of your diet and include more fibrous and nutritious food. Depriving yourself is not the solution and a person often ends up binge eating.
3. Eating healthy food is expensive
The food industry has become extremely fast. Multiple brands offer various types of meals that are cooked in a couple of minutes by just adding hot water. The younger generation seems to be inclined toward this concept of fast and processed food. Many people also justify it by highlighting its cost-effectiveness. But in a country like India, seasonal and fresh vegetables are always available at affordable rates. If you're looking for vegetables and fruits that have longer shelf life, then you can always go for frozen options. Visiting the farmers market is always recommended as it offers both quality and variety.
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4. Late-night snacks are a reason behind weight gain
While it is always recommended to have your dinner as early as possible, with the current lifestyle changes, it becomes almost impossible. Many people stay awake late at night for either study or work purposes. In such a case one would inevitably feel hungry.
The best way to satiate this hunger is to go for healthy snacks rather than binging on chips or French fries. You can simply roast some fox nuts or make a salad bowl for yourself late at night. It doesn't give you unnecessary calories and at the same time gives you the energy to go on with your work.
5. Diet soda is better than regular soda
This is one of the most common misconceptions that today's generation has. Most of the brands have understood the psychology of the customers, which is why anything that has a ‘Diet’ written over it automatically becomes healthy for the customer. In reality, diet sodas have higher chances of causing diabetes, obesity and problems relating to the metabolic system. In its reports the, the UCLA Health Department stated that although diet soda saves you some calories, it is foolish to ignore the harmful effects of it.
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6. Gluten is bad for everyone
Gluten is a type of protein which is found in grains like wheat, barley and even some kinds of oats. The gluten-free industry has become extremely popular in the past couple of years. Many brands sell outrageously expensive products in the name of gluten-free goods. There is no particular reason why you should be avoiding gluten unless and until you are intolerant to gluten. People who have gluten allergies can incorporate gluten-free grains that include corn, rice, and quinoa etc.
These are some of the top misconceptions about healthy diet and lifestyle that people have. Although it is integral to understand the value of nutrition in our lives, it is equally important that we do not take steps in the name of health that backfire on us. Do your bit of research before you come to any conclusion and try to keep your diet simple and nutritious.
