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The Biggest Nutritional Myths Part 1

Posted by Aisling Murray on

We are constantly bombarded with different rules about food but how do we know what to really believe when even professionals can be confused. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, drinking 2 litres of water and enough sleep every day; which is best method to be as healthy as possible. Today I discuss a few myths.

1. Eggs are bad for the heart

This theory arose due to the amount of cholesterol in an egg with a large egg containing approximately 185mg. The Irish Heart Foundation recommends limiting your intake of cholesterol to 300mg a day. By eating two eggs a day you are exceeding this, however, studies have shown that diet has very little to do with blood cholesterol. Our bodies naturally make cholesterol every day (1-2g by itself). Some studies suggest the more cholesterol in your food, the less the body makes as your requirements are being met. I would still recommend to try and not over eat eggs though to maintain a balanced diet. As the satying goes, “an egg a day is ok”

 

  1. Carbohydrates make you gain weight

This is one of the most commonly heard theories as a lot of people are misinformed about carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are not typically fattening; the only way you put on weight is by eating too many calories.

Loading up on sugary refined carbohydrates like white bread, pasta and doughnuts can increase the risk of health problems like heart disease. These refined carbohydrates contain fat and sugar and this is why you gain weight from them. Avoid low carb diets as they do not result in weight loss, in the long run they actually causing weight gain. Instead try to include more whole grains, fruits and vegetables as these foods contain more fibre and nutrients. 

 

  1. Weight gain is due to eating at night

Calories are calories; no matter what time of the day you eat them. What does matter is the amount of calories you take in and the exercise you do. It’s recommended not to eat so late at night as the later you eat the less activity you will be doing so burning off excess calories ingested won’t be as easy. On average you burn 350Kcals while you sleep for 8 hours.

 

Whelehans Nutrition Service

Whelehans nutritional service is a private one to one advice service with our nutritionist Aisling Murray. Aisling’s areas of interest include weight loss management, nutrition education and food intolerance. Our nutrition service offers you the chance to change your life in a positive way by focusing on your overall wellbeing as well as the chance to follow up on your progress.

 

Aisling Murray has a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and offers a one to one specialist nutrition service at Whelehans Pharmacy. Call Whelehans at 04493 34591 for an appointment. Aisling’s Nutriton Clinic costs only €10 per week.


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