Myth vs. Fact: Uncovering & Discovering the Truth of Nutrition Messages

Here are a few more myths and facts to steer you toward a healthy diet!

• You can't lose weight unless you are hungry most days.
• MYTH
• Most people will have times of feeling hungry when beginning to decrease caloric intake initially.  However, adjusting calories moderately, eating more frequently, and choosing higher fiber foods will help decrease hunger!
• Half of all cereals, grains, or breads should be whole grains.
• FACT
• Research indicates whole grains are part of a healthy diet and lifestyle.  Allowing 50% of your carb intake to come from these sources will help to increase your fiber intake, leaving you feeling fuller longer!  However, there is still room in the other 50% to enjoy white bread, rice or pasta if that's what you prefer.
• Vodka is a low calorie beverage when mixed with diet soda.
• MYTH
• Vodka and all other hard liquors have calories (100 calories per 2 fluid oz shot).  A few drinks, even with a diet mixer, can still add up!
• NOTE: AVOID mixing liquor with energy drinks as DANGEROUS cardiac events have been observed in young adults with these combinations!

Although, these are only a few of the millions of myths and facts that are present in the media today, its important to take the time to investigate where your nutrition information is coming from to make sure it's a reliable, reputable source! If you have any questions, feel free to contact RecServicesNurition@niu.edu, sign up online or stop by and schedule an appointment to see a dietetic intern!

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Guest writer is Elizabeth Zabel, currently one of the dietetic interns available to help you at the Rec! Stop by and say hello!