Lawrence Cheung
Why do we keep gaining weight? How come we don’t feel better about ourselves? What can fill you up and trim you down can be surprising. Let’s debunk some myths about eating.
Myth #1: Using margarine over butter is healthier.
Margarine and butter actually have about the same amount of calories. Margarine just happens to be considered healthier because it is made with vegetable oil. Vegetable oil contains unsaturated fats, which reduces cholesterol. However, not all margarines are created equal, because some contain trans fats, which increases your cholesterol. A general tip for those who substitute butter with margarine: the more solid the margarine, the more trans fat it contains. Stick margarines typically have more trans fat that tub margarines.
Myth #2: There are no bad foods when you eat everything in moderation.
Truth be told, some foods just don’t stand up nutritionally speaking. For example, even though a potato chip and a baked potato are from the same vegetable, we know that eating a baked potato is healthier than eating a potato chip. To say that there are no bad foods, give some people a reason to eat anything they want. What you should be aware of are the foods that increase your appetite. You can always enjoy your favourite foods, but please eat in moderation. Your body will thank you for it.
Myth #3: You’ll sleep better after a nightcap.
This one is pretty straightforward; consuming alcohol before sleeping can increase wakefulness, disrupt your sleep and even dehydrate you. If you decide to drink, it is recommended that you do this three hours before bed. In addition, take it easy and don’t drink too much. Follow the one-for-one rule: Drink one glass of water for every glass of alcohol to help prevent dehydration. Make sure to drink a few extra glasses of water the morning after, too.
Myth #4: Celery burns more calories than you take in.
Celery does not have “negative-calories”. There is no such thing as a “negative-calorie” food. While celery does have a low calorie count, high-water density, and lots of fibre, it does not take away from the fact that you are still taking in calories. What it does do, is diminish your appetite and prevent you from taking in more calories later on. Similar foods that are high in fibre and water content have the same effect.
Myth #5: Vitamin C can keep you from catching a cold.
This is a complete myth. Vitamin C will not prevent you from catching a cold. Only those who are in top physical condition, such as marathon runners, and professional athletes, can decrease the chance of getting a cold by half through increased intake of Vitamin C. However, if you take at least 0.2 grams of vitamin C every day, your cold may end a day or two quicker.
There are a lot of claims that specific foods and dietary lifestyles work to improve your health, but this is not always the case. If you make the right choices, you’ll definitely be on the path to a better and healthier you.
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