Busting some common diet myths
Portions don’t matter, eating fat makes you fat – shun such myths if you’re going on a diet, say experts.
Anita Mirchandani, a registered dietician, and chef Ganesh Krishnamoorthy, Co-Founder, Epigamia and Drums Food International, seek to bust some myths around dieting.
PORTIONS DON’T MATTER
In fact, portions matter the most. It is important to understand what portion size suits you. Overeating is one of the main contributors to the obesity epidemic.
DON’T EAT PASTA
You don’t have to avoid anything unless you have an allergy or intolerance. Pasta in moderation is completely acceptable. If you want to avoid gluten or increase nutrition quality, try whole grain or spelt pasta.
LOSE WEIGHT WITH COFFEE
Yes, coffee suppresses appetite. But, the quantity you would need to do it will exceed the recommended daily limit, which is unhealthy. In addition, too much caffeine could make you suffer from dehydration and anxiety.
MULTI-VITAMINS ARE A MUST
Not true. You don’t really need multi-vitamins unless you’re pregnant, nursing or over 50. If you focus on a wholesome diet that integrates healthy fats such as low-fat yoghurt, nuts and seeds as well as whole grains, vegetables and fruits, you can achieve a varied vitamin and mineral intake.
EATING FAT MAKES YOU FAT
Yes, it does, but only if you eat the wrong kind of food, and in excessive portions. Good fats such as those found in avocados, yoghurt, nuts and seeds are beneficial to the body in many ways. Focus on eating healthy fat sources and avoid large amounts of saturated fats like those found in fatty meats, butter or fried foods.
IF YOU EXERCISE, YOU CAN EAT AS MUCH AS YOU WANT
False. This is one of the reasons you may not not lose weight. Calories are calories. You should be conscious of portions. Just because something (like an apple) is healthy, it doesn’t mean you can eat five of them.
EATING ONLY SALADS IS GOOD
Salads are healthy because they add fibre to the diet which helps digestion. However, ingredients in the salad do make a difference. Choose healthy ingredients and replace heavy dressings like mayo, thousand island etc. Low fat yoghurt, cheese, lean meats, nuts with lots of leafy green and vegetables can provide a good balance of nutrients.