7 Common Food Myths!!!

Before starting with food myths, I want to say thanks so much to everyone who has dropped me a line about how much they like the new grocery list format and the sweet comments about my new picture.  I always appreciate the time taken for kind feedback.  So, thank you!!

These myths are according to the American Diabetic Association.  I've at some point in time believed every one of them.  Some of them will surprise you.

Myth 1 - A food labeled "98% fat-free" contains only two percent of its total calories from fat.

Truth - The "98% fat-free" claim refers to the weight of food, not its calories.  Read the nutrition facts for grams of fat per serving.

Myth 2 - Fresh vegetables and fruits contain more nutrients than canned or frozen.

Truth - There is little difference, depending on the handling of produce.  Canned and frozen produce are generally processed at their peak and may contain more nutrients than fresh produce.  Canned or frozen produce may have added sugar or salt, which is something to consider when purchasing these items.

Myth 3 - Your stomach shrinks when you eat less.

Truth - Your stomach expands to handle large amounts of food.  As the food moves through your digestive system, your stomach returns to its normal size and stays there until your next meal.

Myth 4 - Brown bread has more fiber than white bread.

Truth - Being brown in color does not mean a bread is high in fiber.  If the bread's ingredient list states in contains whole wheat or other whole grains, it probably has fiber.  The brown color is likely from caramel coloring found in the ingredient list.  Check the nutrition label for the number of grams of fiber per serving.

Myth 5 - Organically grown foods are more healthful and safer than those grown conventional ways.

Truth - No evidence has shown a difference.  Organic foods are typically grown with natural pesticides and insecticides to prevent crop damage.  With conventional agriculture, pesticides are carefully regulated to ensure their safe use for the environment and human health.

Myth 6 - Irradiation zaps the nutrients from food.

Truth - Irradiation results in minimal nutrient loss just like other forms of food processing, such as drying, freezing, and pasteurization.  Irradiation helps produce maintain quality longer.

Myth 7 - Feed a cold, starve a fever.  Or is it starve a cold, feed a fever?

Truth - Either way, this is a myth!  To fight infection, your body needs a supply of nutrients, plenty of fluids, and extra rest.  A day's eating plan with variety and balance is as important as ever.

There you have some of the most common food myths and why they are just that.

Happy Cooking!

Dawn Billesbach
Mom Blogger and Menu Planner
Menu For The Week
http://menufortheweek.com