When it comes to healthy eating, there are a lot of mixed messages out there about what to eat and when. It’s astounding how frequently diet myths get in the way of people achieving their health goals!
We recently sat down with a nutritionist from our partners at Pack Health to bust a few of these myths, and are excited to share what we learned. Jennifer Dunn RDN has so many tips, we decided to make it a series! First up…
Myth #1: Fat-free foods are always the healthiest choice.
The truth is that fat plays an important role in your body! It provides energy and keeps you full. It protects your organs and cells. It even helps with absorption of vitamins!
Not all fat is created equal, though. Unsaturated fats are beneficial, while saturated fats contribute to cardiovascular disease risk. It’s also important to note that many processed low-fat or fat-free foods have just as many calories as the full-fat versions of the same foods. These foods may contain added flour, salt, starch, or sugar to improve flavor and texture after fat is removed.
Jennifer’s Tips:
- Make sure to include sources of unsaturated fats, such as fish, nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil, in your diet. Bonus points for Omega 3 fatty acids, which have been shown to boost your brain and be good for your overall health.
- Limit sources of saturated fat, such as red meat, dairy, fried foods, and baked goods (muffins, cakes, cookies, etc).
- Read the nutrition labels of processed foods and watch out for added sugars, starches, or salt. Avoid any products with “trans fat” or “hydrogenated oils”.
Stay tuned for more mythbusters and pro tips to eat healthier and feel better, and if you’ve got specific concerns related to RA, psoriasis, IBD (Crohns and Colitis), MS, COPD, IPF, Type 2 Diabetes, or Cancer, check out Pack Health – a free resource for health coaching on your schedule. Pack Health’s programs are fully funded by grants, so don’t bother taking out your credit card, just claim your spot before they run out!