Hendrick Health registered dietitian addresses five nutrition myths

Separating nutrition fact from fiction can go a long way to making healthy foods an easier part of a daily routine. Emily Bartley, a registered dietitian for Hendrick Body and Wellness, said she hears things from her patients that just aren’t true. Bartley dispels five common nutrition myths with the facts below.

Myth: Carbs are bad for you.
Fact: Each food group serves vital functions in the body, with carbohydrates as the main source for energy. Carbohydrates are essential for muscle and organ function and metabolic health. “Aim to choose carbohydrates rich in fiber such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables to support digestion, energy and overall health,” said Bartley.

Myth: You need to detox your body with juice cleanses.
Fact: The good news is that your body detoxes naturally through the liver and kidneys. “Instead of cleanses, focus on drinking plenty of water and eating whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds and lean meats,” said Bartley. Talk with your healthcare provider about the adequate amount of water to consume daily based on your medical condition and lifestyle.

Myth: Eating “clean foods” or “superfoods” is the key to health.
Fact: No single food will make or break your health. Instead, focus on balancing your meals with a variety of foods. “Being too restrictive and labeling foods as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ can put you at risk for binge eating, stress and poor mental health with obsessing about eating healthy foods,” said Bartley. “Food is meant to be enjoyed. A balanced diet is carrots in one hand and cookies in another.”

Myth: Fresh produce is healthier than frozen or canned.
Fact: Frozen and canned fruits and vegetables are just as nutritious as fresh – sometimes even more when harvested at peak ripeness. “For a more nutritious option, select frozen or canned foods with low or no added sugar or sodium,” said Bartley.

Myth: The secret to a healthy body is calories in and calories out.
Fact: While calorie balance may play a role in our health, it is not that simple. Calorie counting may not take into consideration vital nutrient balance and other factors that affect health, such as hormones, sleep, age, metabolism, physical activities and genetics. “We are intricately created, and our health is impacted by more than just calories or even our weight,” said Bartley.

While food fuels the body, good nutrition is just one aspect of a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

“The important thing is to move your body, see your healthcare provider regularly, treat your body with gentle nutrition and remember to relax and enjoy life in the process,” said Bartley.