Many people struggle to achieve their health goals when adopting a healthier lifestyle, often due to misplaced confidence in their chosen eating strategies. The truth is, a lot of what we believe about healthy eating is based on misconceptions.

we aim to support your journey towards better health by clarifying common myths about healthy eating. Let’s debunk 11 prevalent myths.

1. Organic Products Are Always Healthier.

While organic products avoid synthetic pesticides, they may still be treated with natural pesticides whose effects are not well-studied. Additionally, “Eco” or “Natural” labels can sometimes be misleading marketing tools. It’s important to examine the content, origin, and appearance of organic products rather than relying solely on labels.

2. Gluten-Free Products Are Healthier.

A gluten-free diet is essential for those with celiac disease, affecting about 1% of people. For everyone else, there’s no scientific evidence that avoiding gluten improves health. In fact, cutting out gluten can reduce intake of whole grains and potentially increase cardiovascular risk.

3. Low-Fat Products Are Better.

Low-fat products often contain added sugars, artificial flavors, and unhealthy trans fats to make up for the lost flavor. For a balanced diet, it’s better to consume products with normal fat content unless you have a specific medical reason to reduce fat intake.

4. Fruit Juices Are a Healthy Choice.

Fruit juices are high in sugar and lack dietary fiber, which can lead to increased appetite and weight gain. Whole fruits or water with fresh fruit slices are better choices for hydration and nutrition.

5. Energy Bars Are Healthy Snacks.

Energy bars, often marketed as healthy, can be high in sugar, chocolate coatings, and artificial additives. They can have as many calories as a full meal. For a healthier alternative, consider a small piece of dark chocolate or a homemade snack.

6. Dried Fruits Are Always Nutritious.

Dried fruits can be processed with chemicals that may diminish their health benefits. Homemade dried fruits are often better, but when buying from a store, look for products that are less shiny and rough to the touch.

7. Brown-Shelled Eggs Are Better.

The color of an egg’s shell is determined by the hen’s breed, not its quality. The yolk color reflects the hen’s diet. Focus on eggs that are clean, uncracked, and properly refrigerated for safety.

8. Sports Drinks Are Essential for Hydration.

Sports drinks often contain sugars, corn syrup, and artificial additives. They may not effectively quench your thirst and could reduce exercise efficiency. Homemade electrolyte solutions are a healthier alternative.

9. Imported Products Are Superior.

While some imported products can be high quality, local seasonal produce often has more nutrients and fewer additives. When choosing imported items, check their storage dates, ingredients, and origins carefully.

10. Granola Is a Healthy Choice.

Granola can be high in sugar and unhealthy oils, despite its fiber and iron content. It’s better to make your own granola with wholesome ingredients to control the sugar and oil content.

11. Calorie Counting Is Overlooked.

The difference in calories between cooking methods can be significant. For example, a boiled egg has fewer calories than a fried one. Paying attention to calorie content can help manage weight effectively.

Is there another myth you think we missed? Share your thoughts in the comments!