In today’s fast-paced world, where information overload is the norm and the internet is flooded with conflicting nutrition advice, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You might be wondering, “What is the secret to a healthy diet, and how can I make sense of all this?” Well, I’m here to help you discover the truth about the 5 top diet myths and how you can nourish your body, mind, and soul.
1. Real Food, Real Health
Diet myth #1: you do not need to go on a Diet if you eat a healthy diet full of real food. But what exactly is “real food”? It’s simple – real food is food in its natural state. Think fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and nuts and seeds. These are the building blocks of a healthy diet. Real food is not laden with chemicals, preservatives, and additives; it’s fresh, wholesome, and delicious.
When you opt for real food, you’re not only taking care of your body but also your wallet. Healthy foods don’t have to be expensive. Frozen fruits and veggies are just as nutritious as fresh ones, often more so, and they reduce waste. Consider buying supermarket brands – they taste just as good as the premium ones. Plus, planning your meals with a shopping list can help you avoid impulse purchases of sugary treats. Additionally, you can shop online and pick your order up at the store, so you don’t even have to go inside and get tempted by the aisles of junk food they purposefully place where you will see it.
2. Supplements: A Helping Hand
While real food should be the cornerstone of your nutrition, supplements can play a role in filling nutritional gaps. However, remember that supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet. They work best when they complement your food choices. So, don’t rely solely on pills – nourish your body with real, wholesome food. The worst offenders are the supplement companies that brainwash you into thinking their new product is the magic pill. A common myth is that we must detox our bodies. Please stop buying diet and liver detox pills. Your liver detoxes itself when you eat real food.
3. The Exercise Myth
You’ve probably heard the saying, “You cannot out-exercise an unhealthy diet.” It’s true. Exercise is vital for overall health, but it can’t compensate for poor eating habits. To shed those extra pounds, you MUST count calories. Yes, this is in capitals for a reason. It is necessary. But don’t fret; it’s not as daunting as it sounds. For two weeks, use a free calorie counter app and log everything you eat. Once you do, you’ll see a pattern from which you can make a plan. For help with this plan, schedule a Strategy Call with me. Pair your calorie management with regular physical activity – at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, along with strength training. Remember, most of us lead sedentary lives, so it’s time to get moving!
4. Embrace the Carbs
Now, let’s address the carb controversy, which is probably the biggest diet myth out there. Carbs are not the enemy. In fact, they’re a vital part of a balanced diet. Healthy carbs from vegetables and fruits provide energy, essential vitamins, and fiber for digestion. Even staples like potatoes, pasta, and rice can have a place on your plate in moderation. Click here for examples of portion sizes. The key is to avoid pairing them with high-fat toppings or sauces.
One more thing: consider timing your carb intake. Eating carbs earlier in the day allows your body to burn off energy efficiently. Late-night carb consumption can lead to unwanted fat storage. So, choose your carb moments wisely.
Your journey to a healthier you starts with embracing real food, making smart choices, and balancing nutrition with exercise. It’s about nurturing your body, not punishing it. Remember, healthy eating is an investment in your well-being, and it doesn’t have to break the bank. So, let’s choose the path of nourishment, balance, and vitality. Together, we can unlock the power of real food and pave the way to a healthier, happier you.
Meet Denise E. Stegall, the CEO and Curator of Living Healthy List.com. With 25 years of experience and study in nutrition, cooking, exercise, and coaching, she helps female entrepreneurs and businesswomen curate a healthy, happy, and productive life.
As an inspirational thought leader, Denise provides honest, research-backed information on health, wellness, personal development, and fun for real-life application. Her platform, Living Healthy List, is a go-to community for health and wellness resources, empowering positive changes and creating the life you want.
Denise’s background in nutrition and her philosophy of “Eat Real Food, Make Good Decisions, and Be Accountable” shaped her International Best Seller, “Healthy Living, Happy Life: A Practical Path to Finding the Healthy Lifestyle That Works for You!”
She goes beyond her book and Living Healthy List to offer “Forever Wellness Lifestyle ,” a groundbreaking group coaching model with individualized roadmaps for true health, balance, stress management, confidence, and an uplifting lifestyle. Denise E. Stegall is devoted to empowering individuals to embrace holistic well-being and fulfillment.
“Living a healthy lifestyle does not have to be hard! “