Fitness and nutritional science are challenging concepts to pin down. There are many conflicting sources of information. Popular trends and fad diets sometimes spread misinformation. Social media influences and online stories spread false truths. This article breaks down some myths you may have heard of before. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll find clarity concerning health myths and truths.
1. Cardio Alone Is Not Enough to Get in Shape & Lose Weight
Don’t get the wrong idea because you still need cardio!
Healthcare professionals recommend that adults aim for 20-30 minutes of daily cardio. However, you burn the bulk of your calories passively. Passive calories refer to calories burned by your metabolism every day. You burn these calories just by being alive. This is also commonly referred to as your ‘base metabolic rate.’
The most effective way to increase your base metabolic rate is to increase your muscle mass. One pound of muscle burns calories at twice the rate one pound of fat does. If you want to exercise more, lose weight, or get fit, incorporate some strength gaining into your routine. You’ll likely find the results you seek.
2. Canned or Frozen Fruits and Vegetables Are Less Healthy Than Fresh Ones
This one is occasionally true, but only sometimes. The idea that canned fruits and vegetables aren’t as healthy is primarily because of the syrup they’re packaged in.
Many items in the canned produce section have added sugars. It also has extra salt to assist with preservation or for added flavor. For canned produce, look for fruits and vegetables packaged in natural juices. Avoid syrup, and give them a quick rinse before using. This will wash away any additives that may have been included.
On the other hand, frozen produce can be just as good or sometimes better than fresh fruits and veggies. These fruits and vegetables are regularly picked at the peak freshness. Then they’re frozen almost immediately, locking in nutrients. The downside to frozen produce is that the packaging sometimes contains added salt.
Of course, eating fruits and vegetables in general are healthy. So, don’t deter yourself from eating them, even if you have to digest extra preservatives occasionally.
3. Egg Are Unhealthy Because They’re High in Cholesterol and Saturated Fats
This is another partial truth. An egg’s cholesterol and saturated fat are concentrated primarily in the yolk. Does that mean you should avoid eating only the yolk? Not necessarily!
The yolk is high in vitamin D, essential for our bones and teeth. It also contains a high amount of healthy fats that lower bad cholesterol. On that note, there are both good and bad cholesterol types. Most people only know of the bad, which brings us to our next tip:
4. Not All Cholesterol Is Inherently Bad
Cholesterol is the waxy substance that builds in your arteries over time, and generally, that’s very bad for you. Low-density lipoprotein, or (LDL), is the type of cholesterol you want to be wary of. This form of cholesterol builds up in your arteries and inhibits blood flow. When cholesterol builds, it increases your risk of heart attack or stroke.
High-density lipoprotein does the opposite, sometimes called “good cholesterol.” It cleans away the buildup of extra LDL cholesterol from your arteries and disposes of them. Your body needs some cholesterol to produce hormones and vitamin D. It builds and repairs cells in your nervous system. The high-density variation is preferred over LDL.
5. Being Cold Will Make You Sick
You’re more likely to catch diseases from the germs located indoors. Exposing yourself to low temperatures can boost your immune system. So, don’t be afraid to deal with the cold temps occasionally.
Now, if you stand out in the rain for an extended period of time, you may risk getting sick. Exposure to rain and cold without warming yourself up can result in a cold or pneumonia. So, be careful not to expose yourself to the elements for too long.
6. Cannabis Is Addictive
Contrary to what you may read, studies reveal that cannabis is not addictive. Instead, marijuana offers many benefits, from relieving pain to easing discomfort from depression.
You can experience cannabis through edibles, food, smoking, and more.
Conclusion
Information about our health and the science backing popular information frequently evolves. Unfortunately, this list isn’t an exhaustive list of health myths. Yet, it reflects the most up-to-date science in the health industry.
David Prior
David Prior is the editor of Today News, responsible for the overall editorial strategy. He is an NCTJ-qualified journalist with over 20 years’ experience, and is also editor of the award-winning hyperlocal news title Altrincham Today. His LinkedIn profile is here.
