Healthy Eating Misconceptions: Things You Need to Know
In this day in age, what scientists and nutritionists deem to be “healthy” is CONSTANTLY changing and it can be hard to navigate what is actually good for us! That is why we decided to make this list of common healthy eating misconceptions so that we can help you feel better about the food you’re eating. Let’s dig in!
5 Healthy Eating Misconceptions That We Want to Clear Up
Obviously, health and nutrition are important to us, and we do our best to give you information that will educate you and inspire you to be healthier. Which is why we think it is important to read up on these 5 common healthy eating misconceptions that many of us have grown up believing.
Healthy Eating Misconception 1: Low-Fat Foods Are Better For You…
You’ve seen this everywhere! Companies all over the place start sticking “low-fat” on everything so that you believe whatever you buy is better for you. But to be honest, not all healthy foods are low-fat. And on the flipside, not all low-fat foods are good for you!
For instance, a lot of “low-fat” yogurts, or coffee creamers, or microwave ready meals are actually full of sugars, unnecessary additives, and salt. The important thing to remember is that not all fats are the same, and some of them are pretty good for you! Monounsaturated fats that are found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil can actually promote weight loss and lower cholesterol.
Misconception 2: Potatoes Count As A Serving of Vegetables…
This one stumps a lot of people, especially those of us in Montana. Many people think that a diet of “meat and potatoes” is good enough. However, potatoes aren’t vegetables at all, and are instead classified as a starchy food (carbohydrate).
While they are a great source of B vitamins, fiber, and potassium, they shouldn’t replace your vegetable serving. If you are trying to increase your veggie intake, replace your regular potatoes with sweet potatoes instead!
Misconception 3: Carbs Are Bad For You…
This might be the most common healthy eating misconception there is. If you think carbs are a big no-no for weight loss, we would love to tell you that there are good carbs too! Carbohydrates are your main source of energy, as well as fiber and nutrients.
Some programs promote low/no carb diets in the beginning to ensure weight loss and to minimize setbacks by limiting food options.
Whole grains, beans, fruits and vegetables are great healthy carb options, and can give you energy and promote weight loss! The next time you’re craving a buttery breadstick or a sugary donut, try half a peanut butter sandwich with banana on whole grain bread instead.
Misconception 4: Organic Foods Are Better For You…
Organic doesn’t necessarily mean better. A lot of times, nowadays food gets slapped with an “organic” sticker just so they can charge more. The best thing to do is to find locally-grown foods and buy fruits and veggies that are in season. Many local farmers follow the same practices as organic farms but just can’t afford the certifications needed.
If you can’t afford only organic, don’t stress! The important thing is to check that the natural products you are eating are actually as healthy as they say they are.
For the record, Well Pared finds the best possible ingredients by using seasonal produce, so that you get fresh and nutritional ingredients! Though we strive for organic and locally grown products, we don’t guarantee it for that reason – we want to keep our prices affordable for our customers! We would never serve substandard ingredients, and that is a promise!
Misconception 5: Cravings Are How Your Body Tells You What It Needs…
We hear this all the time. We’ve been told that our bodies tell us what we need by what we crave. However, this might just be an excuse for those times you are craving chocolate cake, or salty snacks, or a juicy cheeseburger. Although our bodies do have the potential to let us know what certain nutrients we might need, these cravings should never be used an excuse to give into the foods we crave, that aren’t very healthy!
We believe that your body and mind will only crave what it is most exposed to and most familiar with. To us means that if you are constantly giving your body what it needs, like a healthy and balanced diet, your body won’t crave junk food so much, and will instead start craving the good stuff (like anything on the Well Pared menu).
Now that you know the truth behind some of these common healthy eating misconceptions, you can feel better prepared when starting or continuing your wellness journey. We truly believe that eating right doesn’t have to be difficult. Our goal at Well Pared is to give you great tasting food that inspires you to be the best version of yourself!
Come visit the store today and see how we have something everyone will love! If you have any questions, our staff would be happy to help and give you suggestions so that you get something you love!
