The Science of Nutrition: Facts vs. Myths
Hey there, friends! Today I’m here to chat about one of my absolute favorite topics – the fascinating world of nutrition. You know, it’s a subject that’s encrusted with enough myths to give an ancient Greek bard a run for his money! (Homer, I’m looking at you.)
Stay hydrated, but how much is enough?
As much as I adore my stainless steel water bottle (best birthday gift ever, thanks, Mom!), the often repeated “8 glasses a day” rule isn’t as cut-and-dry as we are led to believe. As per Harvard Health, your daily water needs can vary depending on a host of factors like your health, activity levels, and where you live. I don’t know about you, but I definitely drink more on hot summer days or when I’m hiking. [1]
Fat: Friend or Foe?
Let’s tackle another titan of nutritional folklore: the demonization of fats. Yes, too much fat can be harmful. But folks, not all fats are created equal! For example, the unsaturated kinds — you know, the ones in avocados and fish — can help lower your bad cholesterol levels. Sounds like a tasty way to keep the heart doctor away, right? [2]
- Myths:
- You need to drink 8 glasses of water a day
- All fats are bad for you
Right, I’m going to stop bashing the myths for a moment, and focus on some of the hard-boiled facts. (Get it…because nutrition…eggs…Hard-boiled? Okay, moving on.)
The Building Blocks of Your Body: Proteins
Protein is a necessary nutrient for us, and it’s not just for the gym bunnies! Proteins have their fingers in every pie (metaphorically speaking), from building and repairing tissues, to making enzymes and hormones. It’s like a backstage crew that keeps our body’s show running smoothly. As per the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, proteins should make up 10-35% of your daily calories. *[3]
Vitamins and Minerals: The Unsung Heroes
We often overlook the wet-behind-the-ears, but hardworking characters in our nutrition saga – vitamins and minerals. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health tells us these mini miracle workers perform hundreds of roles in the body, from healing wounds, to strengthening your bones, to converting food into energy. *[4]
Well, that’s it for today’s chat, my nutrition-conscious comrades! Let’s continue our quest to separate facts from myths, one snack at a time! Till the next time we chat, eat well, stay healthy, and remember, the journey to understanding nutrition is not a sprint but a delicious marathon!
- References
- Harvard Health. (n.d.). How much water should you drink? source
- Harvard Health. (n.d.). The truth about fats: the good, the bad, and the in-between. source
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans. (2020). Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025. source
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. (n.d.). Vitamins and Minerals. source