Diethack is a Food blog which takes on a number of myths, old wives’ tales and false claims about the health properties of certain foods and roots out where the healthy truth lies. Amongst a few oft-quoted properties of prunes, carrots, and other supposed miracle foods was one I’ve heard from a number of (usually newly-started) vegetarians:
Two bananas are the equivalent of a beefsteak
False: You need at least 12 to 14 bananas to equate the protein value of 100g of a beefsteak, but it is more nutritious to eat 12 bananas than a beefsteak.
What food myths are you tired of hearing, and have you found to be the true. Let’s hear them in the comments. Photo by *clairity* via Flickr
11 Widespread Food Statements Demystified [Diethack]
Diet has differing effects on different people, so only generalities can be true. I need to eat “heart-healthy”; that is, no saturated fats or trans fats (the latter found in processed foods).
When we are in Dominica and exercise more and I consume fruit, fish, and white meats (breast of chicken, pork), my blood levels for bad cholesterol (LDL) and good cholesterol (HDL) both improve, the latter falling and the former rising. I also lose weight and gain in energy and stamina.
I also know that bananas contain no fat at all and are a source of potassium, which is vital to avoiding mental depression.
Overall, the healthy diets of Dominicans (with the exceptions of dark meat of chicken, beef, most cooking oils — the source of much harmful fats) and their exercise (work, walking, etc.) may, in large measure, be responsible for the remarkable longevity enjoyed by numerous Dominicans.
I hope that good diet and exercise habits continue on Dominica, along with a decrease in cigarette smoking and an end to use of harmful drugs and, of course, avoidance of AIDS. Dominica is a wonderful place that must be enjoyed with good health!