Myth busting: 5 eating habits that aren’t as healthy as you think!

Food and life go hand in hand and we agree, we’ve all tried different ways to maintain a healthy diet. In fact, these days you will find numerous suggestions on the internet claiming to be more than just fads; some have even become mainstream health practices followed by many around the world. But does that automatically mean that these tips offer established benefits? Well, not always! We often fail to spot the flaws in these eating patterns and they can actually have a negative impact on us. Curious about these popular eating habits? Let’s explore some commonly followed dietary trends that are actually bad for you.

The Science Behind Healthy Eating Habits:

Eating nutritious food keeps your body and mind strong, helping you stay healthy and wise in the long run. However, it’s vital to realize that when and how much you eat also plays a significant role in your eating regimen. According to health experts, an eating habit that works for you may not have the same effect on others: Diet regimens vary from person to person based on factors such as age, gender, tolerance and more. To guide us, scientists, governments and experts develop evidence-based dietary guidelines. These guidelines offer holistic advice on healthy eating. Let’s delve into these guidelines by highlighting the common mistakes we make in the name of healthy eating habits.
Read also: 8 easy food and drink swaps for healthy weight loss

Photo credit: iStock

Advertisment

Here are 5 “healthy” diet tips that aren’t actually healthy:

1. Think Back To Drinking Green Tea First Thing In The Morning:

Green tea has become a staple in our daily routine over the years. Many of us drink it as our first drink in the morning, believing it will help detoxify our system. While it’s true that green tea is rich in antioxidants and can aid in weight loss and boost metabolism, it’s important to understand that it also contains tannins. These tannins can create acidity in the stomach, leading to constipation, bloating and even nausea when consumed on an empty stomach. Experts suggest taking green tea after breakfast to jump-start your metabolism without any ill effects.

2. Be careful with the daily consumption of herbal teas:

Herbal tea has found its way into the diets of fitness enthusiasts these days. However, what many overlook are the potential risks associated with these teas. According to a report from Harvard University, people should only consume herbal tea after receiving medical approval, as it may “pose certain risks to people with certain health conditions.” The report also points out that herbal tea should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment.

3. Don’t Go Overboard With Calorie Cutting:

Calories often get demonized on our weight loss journeys, but they’re not the bad guys they’re meant to be! While you may have grown up hearing “calorie avoidance,” the truth is, calories are essential for your body to function properly. Calories provide the energy your body needs to work effectively. To stay fit and manage your weight, the calories you consume should align with the calories your body uses. Experts recommend avoiding excessive calorie intake or eliminating it completely. Instead, consume calories in moderation and make sure you burn them effectively to maintain a healthy body.

4. Don’t Eliminate All Carbs:

Just like calories, carbohydrates are important to your overall health. Carbohydrates supply your body with glucose, which is converted into energy for all bodily functions. What you need to do is avoid processed carbohydrates which lack nutrients due to extensive processing. Instead, focus on identifying healthy carbohydrates that are high in fiber and can actually contribute to your well-being, weight loss and bowel cleansing. Some examples of healthy carb options include lentils, milk and dairy products, oats, apples and berries, just to name a few.

5. Embrace the Occasional Indulgences:

Eating healthy is vital to achieving your desired health goals, but remember, there’s always room for the occasional treat. In fact, experts suggest that it’s important to consume cheat meals at regular intervals to keep your body functioning optimally. Several studies have shown that indulging in the occasional treat not only gives you energy from within, but also boosts your metabolism by getting it back to work. Furthermore, it offers the possibility to relax and later return to one’s health routine with renewed enthusiasm.
Have you made any of the above dietary mistakes? If so, it’s time to stop because you may unknowingly harm yourself! The best approach is to consult an expert and tailor your diet to suit your individual tolerance levels.

Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides general information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical advice. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for further information. NDTV assumes no responsibility for this information.