5 Common Nutrition Myths Debunked by Calgary Registered Dieticians

When it comes to nutrition, there’s no shortage of conflicting information, making it hard to know what’s truly best for your health. Many myths and misconceptions persist, causing confusion and sometimes leading to poor dietary choices. At Jensen Fitness in Calgary, our registered dieticians are here to help clear the air and set the record straight. Here are five common nutrition myths debunked by our team, so you can make informed choices that truly benefit your health. 

1. Myth: Carbs Are Bad for You 

For years, carbohydrates have been unfairly labeled as the enemy, especially with the rise of low-carb diets. However, not all carbs are created equal, and eliminating them entirely can do more harm than good. Your body relies on carbohydrates as its main energy source, and many carb-rich foods, like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, provide essential nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals. 

What’s important is choosing the right types of carbs. Processed and refined carbs, such as white bread and sugary snacks, can lead to weight gain and health issues when consumed in excess. However, complex carbohydrates, like those found in quinoa, oats, and legumes, are healthy and should be part of a balanced diet. Registered dieticians in Calgary recommend incorporating these nutrient-dense carbs to fuel your body and maintain long-term health. 

2. Myth: Eating Fat Makes You Fat 

This myth has been around for decades, but it’s time to put it to rest. Not all fats are bad, and in fact, healthy fats are essential for your body to function properly. Your brain, heart, and even your hormones rely on fats to operate at their best. The key is to focus on consuming unsaturated fats, such as those found in olive oil, avocados, nuts, and fatty fish like salmon. 

On the other hand, trans fats and excessive saturated fats, often found in processed foods, should be limited as they can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems. The registered dieticians at Jensen Fitness emphasize the importance of including healthy fats in your diet for optimal health and debunk the idea that eating fat alone leads to weight gain. It’s all about balance and portion control. 

3. Myth: Skipping Meals Helps You Lose Weight 

Skipping meals, particularly breakfast, is often thought to be a quick fix for weight loss. However, registered dieticians warn that this approach can backfire. When you skip meals, your body goes into starvation mode, which slows down your metabolism and can lead to overeating later in the day. This not only makes it harder to lose weight but can also lead to nutrient deficiencies. 

Eating regular, balanced meals helps keep your metabolism running efficiently and prevents energy crashes throughout the day. Instead of skipping meals, focus on portion control and making healthier food choices. Calgary’s registered dieticians recommend eating small, nutrient-dense meals and snacks throughout the day to support your energy levels and weight management goals. 

4. Myth: Supplements Can Replace a Healthy Diet 

With the vast array of supplements available, it’s tempting to think you can pop a pill and meet all your nutritional needs. While supplements can be beneficial in certain cases, they should never be viewed as a replacement for a healthy, balanced diet. Whole foods provide a complex array of nutrients, including fiber and antioxidants, that cannot be replicated in supplement form. 

Registered dieticians in Calgary stress that supplements should only be used to fill specific gaps in your diet, such as vitamin D in the winter months or iron for those with deficiencies. But overall, the best way to get the nutrients your body needs is through a varied diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. 

5. Myth: Detox Diets Cleanse Your Body 

Detox diets and cleanses have gained popularity, promising to "flush out toxins" and kick-start weight loss. However, the truth is that your body is perfectly capable of detoxifying itself without the need for extreme diets or fasting regimens. Your liver and kidneys are designed to filter and eliminate toxins naturally. 

Detox diets often involve consuming very few calories, which can leave you feeling fatigued and deprived of essential nutrients. While it’s true that eating a diet rich in whole foods and reducing processed junk can support your body’s natural detox processes, there’s no need for a restrictive detox plan. Registered dieticians advise focusing on long-term, sustainable eating habits rather than quick-fix detox trends. 

Trust the Experts for Lasting Nutrition Advice 

It’s easy to fall for nutrition myths when there’s so much conflicting information out there. But the registered dieticians at Jensen Fitness are here to help you sort fact from fiction and create a nutrition plan that works for your unique needs. By debunking these common myths, we aim to empower you with knowledge and practical advice that leads to better health and well-being. 

Remember, healthy eating isn’t about following fad diets or extreme measures. It’s about balance, moderation, and making informed choices that support your long-term health goals. Ready to take the guesswork out of nutrition? Reach out to a registered dietician at Jensen Fitness in Calgary today and get personalized guidance that sets you up for success—give us a call or book your free consultation!