American nutritionists Vanessa Risseto and Tamar Samuels have debunked popular myths about healthy eating. A conversation with them was published by Business Insider.
According to experts, it is wrong to believe that honey or agave syrup is healthier than sugar. They also contain sugar, and it is no better than usual. “Sugar is sugar,” Risseto said. “Ultimately, the way the body metabolizes simple forms of sugar is the same,” added Samuels.
Nutritionists did not agree with the opinion that food without fat can always be considered healthy. Foods without fat can be unhealthy, Samuels said. “Often, along with fat, food ceases to provide a feeling of fullness,” she explained. “It’s not worth it,” Risseto agreed. “Just eat your normal amount of fat and it will be better.”
The daily norm of eight glasses of water also turned out to be a myth. The actual amount of water required depends on the weight. Most adults should drink about two liters of water a day. But, according to Samuels, a significant portion of those two liters is already ingested with food and various drinks – for example, tea, coffee, soup, fruits and vegetables.
The biggest misconception, according to nutritionists, is associated with the benefits of red wine for the heart. A glass of wine won’t do much harm, Risseto said, but it won’t do much good either.
Previously, nutritionist Albina Komissarova refuted the popular myth about weight loss. “The idea that they get better from certain foods is in itself wrong,” she said. “They get better from overeating altogether.”