Popular food myths. There are plenty of things we’ve all grown up listening, particularly when it comes to our health and wellbeing – especially about the meals we eat. For example, about a particular fruit that helps weight loss. A particular vegetable that would give you bright skin. Or about special food things that are only to be eaten on an empty stomach.
Maybe you even consider them to this day — and most likely, none of these has made you any significant injury. That’s right — because these are myths. Sure, they’re generally believed, and maybe even passed down generations. But science, research, and cold, hard facts show a different story, and we’re here to smash these misunderstandings and half-truths.
Myth 1: Cold Beverages Slow Metabolism
Myth 2: Warm Lemon Water on an Empty Stomach Aids Weight Loss
Simply put, there is no clear study that proves this case. Warm lemon water on an empty stomach has no important advantage as such. Sure, it is not dangerous to one’s health, but if you are already hydrating well and having a good amount of fruit and vegetables, there is no requirement to add this step to your morning habit.
Myth 3: Dairy Aggravates Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Having excess milk can improve androgen and insulin levels in the blood. But, if you have been diagnosed with PCOS, you need not exclude dairy completely, unless you are allergic/sensitive to lactose or milk proteins. Anything in excess is bad, so secure you limit your consumption. Consciously reducing dairy consumption will also help decrease insulin resistance.
Myth 4: Rotis Are Healthier Than Rice
Both grains, i.e. wheat and rice, have grown arch-nemesis of the weight loss management. However, the fact is that if eaten whole, both grains give the body with vitamins, minerals, complex carbohydrates, fibre, and proteins. Only the processed variants of these grains, made with refined oils and sugars can cause weight gain.
Myth 5: Green Tea Helps Weight Loss
Green tea is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids and is also a calorie-free drink. It is a healthier option to milk tea (which is higher in calories), but in itself, does not help weight loss. If consumed in excess, the caffeine in green tea can prevent the absorption of other nutrients in food.
Myth 6: Honey Is Healthy
Honey, in its real form, has some therapeutic value. But if weight loss is the aim, then it includes the same amount of calories as sugar or jaggery. It just boils down to simple carbohydrates which can produce a spike in the body’s sugar levels.
Myth 7: Mangoes Cause Acne
Inflammation-induced by refined sugar and hormonal imbalances triggered by anxiety is the two main reasons for acne. Mangoes, do not directly induce acne, particularly the ones that are organic and matured on the tree. The chemicals used to ripen the fruit can disrupt the endocrine balance, which could result in acne.
Myth 8: Puffed Rice Doesn't Cause Weight Gain
Also Read: The Best Vegan Protein Sources
