Low Carb Diets

Carbohydrates are your body’s main fuel source. A diet high in refined carbohydrates (simple carbs) can raise your risk of obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. However, this does not mean you should cut out carbohydrates altogether. Complex carbohydrates- found in whole grains, beans, vegetables, and fruits-are good for you. They are high in nutrients and provide a fuel source for your body. If you notice you are losing weight on a low-carb diet, it is most likely because you are consuming less calories and restricting foods. But this can be true of any restricting diet. The best (and healthiest) way to lose weight is to follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly.

Gluten Free Diets Benefit Everyone

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Gluten-free diets are a bit of a fad right now, but not everyone needs to eat this way. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder of the small intestine. People with Celiac disease or a gluten intolerance cannot digest gluten, so they must consume a gluten-free diet to avoid discomfort. If you have not been medically diagnosed with a gluten intolerance, there is likely no benefit from consuming this diet. If you find you are losing weight on a gluten-free diet, it is probably from restricting certain foods and not from removing gluten. If you believe you are gluten intolerant or celiac, it is best to see a doctor.

Microwaving is bad for you

The changes that take place in your food when you microwave it are due to the food heating up. It is the same change that would occur if you were to heat the food up on a stove, or in the oven. It is true that you may lose certain nutrients, but this is true whenever you heat food, regardless of the method used. As long as you are using a microwave-safe container, it is perfectly fine to heat your food up in the microwave.

Foods that are low in fat or fat-free are healthy

The terms, ‘low in fat’ and ‘fat-free’ do not necessarily mean a food is healthy. Many foods advertised as low in fat and fat-free are actually very high in sugar and low in nutrients. Removing fat from a food can change the taste. In order to ensure taste is still appealing, sugar is often added to the food.  It is always important to read the nutrition label and choose carefully! There are also foods that are higher in fat but very healthy for you. This includes (but is not limited to) avocados, nuts, seeds, and fish.

Fruit is high in sugar and not healthy

Fruits are naturally sweetened. They are an important part of a healthy diet as they contain vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Consuming fruit is a good way to satisfy your sweet tooth! Choosing fruits over processed foods with added sugars can reduce your risk of developing chronic disease and help you maintain a healthy weight. Ensure you are adding fruit to your daily diet!

And, of course, seek the expertise of nutritional coaching from either a Registered Dietician (RD), an International Olympic Committee Sports Nutritionist (IOC –SN), and/or a Certified Sports Nutritionist from the International Society of Sports Nutrition (CISSN) to optimize your daily nutrition.