It’s summer break, and I have more time in my hands to do things I had left and taken for granted. First on the list is getting back to the gym.
I have not totally abandoned exercise. I do morning crunches and push ups, and any other exercise I can sneak into my usual routine at home, at work, and even while standing in a queue. But I found it more gratifying to be actually doing reps lifting weights, earning my bulges from sweat and pain. And I like the interaction there… exchanging bits and tips on nutrition and proper execution from like-minded people, and the invaluable support & encouragement one gets are just as ceaseless as that which one gets at church.
But one can’t help but notice that a lot of information shared actually don’t make sense, are without good basis, often exaggerated, downright wrong and potentially harmful. I try to tactfully correct whenever I catch any of these, but then it seems in their rush to build that Mr. Universe arm or sculpt that perfect six-pack, many are only too willing to perpetuate these myths. Specially when that information comes from someone who has visibly gained, but obviously out of sheer chance, or luck.
This post from Medical News Today came just in time. It lists down the 10 most common myths in nutrition today. And yes, I’ve heard of these dropped in matter-of-fact fashion at the gym. And I’ve been misled by a couple of these, too.
10. Eating carbohydrates makes you fat.
9. Drink eight, 8-oz. glasses of water per day.
8. Brown grain products are whole grain products.
7. Eating eggs will raise your cholesterol.
6. All alcohol is bad for you.
5. Vitamin supplements are necessary for everyone.
4. Consuming extra protein is necessary to build muscle mass.
3. Eating fiber causes problems if you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
2. Eating immediately after a workout will improve recovery. (or make sure to load up on protein right after the workout)
1. Type 2 diabetes can be prevented by eating foods low on the glycemic index. (or that eating sugary foods can lead to diabetes)
2 Comments
March 31, 2007 at 1:33 pm
Potatoes have gotten a bad rap because of myths as those you’ve listed. You might be surprised to know this yummy vegetable is in fact good for you. Check out http://healthypotato.com and http://potatoheadquarters.com
Cheers~
March 31, 2007 at 3:17 pm
thanks for these, Amy. potatoes happen to be among the very few veggies i actually enjoy.
and best wishes on your wedding!