Disproving Common Misunderstandings to Fuel Your Fitness Journey
Hey there fitness fam! I’m sure you’re like me, you have searched for nutrition tips on the internet and you’ve found a tangled web of buried truth and conflicting information. So grab a snack (preferably a nutritious one), and let’s dive into some of the most common myths in nutrition that are holding you back. We will sift through the noise to get to the bottom of what is true, and what is not, to fuel your body.
Myth 1: Carbohydrates Cause Weight Gain
Let’s begin with the most popular antagonist — carbohydrates! There are many people who think that all carbohydrates are terrible and that they should be avoided if they do not want to gain unwanted weight. Here is the truth: carbohydrates are your body’s primary form of energy. Really!
Think about it, you’re an athlete, whether that is weight lifting, running, or going to a yoga class. You require an energy source. And that is where our dear friend carb comes into play. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are packed with incredibly nutritious resources and fiber to make you feel full longer and provide energy for exercise. Moderation, and balance, is the biggest factor to paying attention to. So throw your make sourdough bread and let us enjoy our slice again at Sunday Brunch!
Myth 2: All Fats Are Bad for You
I used to struggle with this myth, I cut all of the fats out of my diet thinking that they were the enemy. I was very wrong! Fats are important for your body! Fats are useful in the hormones you produce and allow your body to absorb nutrients. In addition, healthy fats (think avocados, nuts, and olive oil) can keep your skin glowing and enhance your overall health. When I learned to embrace healthy fats and myths in nutrition, I realized how much I had missed the delicious drizzle of olive oil on a salad or a spoonful of nut butter on my toast. So, let’s support healthy fats instead of fearing them!
Myth 3: Protein Shakes Must Be Consumed Within 15 Minutes of Working Out
There’s a conventional wisdom that if you don’t drink a protein shake immediately after you work out, it basically doesn’t count. Having drank my fair share of protein shakes at the gym, I can assure you this myth is big. Yes, protein is important for muscle recovery, but you don’t necessarily have to drink a protein shake.
Whole food sources are usually more effective! Think chicken, quinoa, beans, or Greek yogurt. I find that preparing a healthy meal later in the day is something enjoyable to look forward to—not guzzling down another shake in the locker room. I promise, your body will still get protein from wholesome foods even if you do not consume protein immediately within fifteen minutes of your workout.
Myth 4: Gluten-Free is Healthier
Ahhh gluten-free. Many people consider gluten-free to be a better option. Yes, for the person with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it is necessary, but a healthy individual does not experience any health benefits from not consuming gluten. Additionally, many gluten-free products use sugars and refined flours instead to replace the texture that gluten provides. Those options may be more detrimental to a person’s health than hearty whole grains. I switched from whole-grain wraps to gluten-free wraps and found that instead of feeling energized, I felt sluggish after eating gluten-free. Stay with whole grains, and don’t be drawn into gluten-free eating when it is not needed.
Myth 5: Skipping Meals is a Good Strategy for Weight Loss
We have all thought that the less meals you have, the less calories, which leads to weight loss, but what actually happens is that by the time the next meal comes around, you are starving and likely to overeat. I have tried to skip meals too, and all it did was create an unhealthy relationship with food. So instead, try to have balanced meals throughout the day, which keeps your metabolism going and your energy level steady. Again, it is important to nourish your body and not deprive it!
Conclusion
Understanding nutrition can feel like navigating a minefield of misinformation but don’t let it hold you back. As you begin your health and fitness journey with myths in nutrition, keep in mind that balance, variety, and moderation are your best friends! If you understand what’s been presented in this blog and can debunk these common myths, you are on the right path to making custom decisions for you and your health and fitness goals. Also, listen to your body and what’s working, because what works for me may not work for you, and that’s okay! Let’s continue to learn and support each other in finding our best selves!
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