Nutrition myths have a way of circulating like perennial tales, gaining more followers over time. These myths often stem from misinterpreted studies, buried studies, junk food industry funding, oversimplified news snippets, and the ever-evolving trends championed by celebrities or influencers without scientific backing. By tracing their origins, we can better understand why these myths persist despite contradictory evidence. For instance, the myth that "eating fat makes you fat" originated from misinterpreted research including Harvard scientists being paid by the sugar industry in the mid-20th century, shaping decades of dietary habits that prioritized low-fat, high-sugar processed foods, contrary to healthier, balanced approaches.

At our core, we focus on educating our clients by highlighting the origins and impact of these myths on their daily food choices. By understanding where these myths come from, our clients can more easily discern fact from fiction, making them more likely to adopt healthier eating behaviors grounded in scientific facts rather than catchy headlines.

Fact-Checking Popular Misconceptions: What Does Science Say?

Do almonds really require more water than other crops? Is gluten-free always a healthier option? It's easy to accept such statements as fact, but when we dig into the research, the reality is often more nuanced. We use science-based evidence to break down common misconceptions and present the facts in a clear, understandable way. For example, while almonds do require significant water resources, their water footprint is comparable to or less than other tree nuts, olive oil and stone fruits. Similarly, a gluten-free diet is essential for individuals with celiac disease, but for those without the condition, there can be some proven advantage to avoiding gluten depending on the situation. Autoimmune conditions may benefit by eliminating gluten to lower inflammation and antibody levels. Those with gut problems might find their digestion improves with gluten-free eating. We use labs and symptoms improvements to guide our long term nutrition recommendations. 

Supporting our discussions with rigorous, peer-reviewed research allows us to dismantle misconceptions and replace them with validated information. This not only corrects misunderstandings but also aligns our dietary recommendations with the latest scientific consensus, ensuring you receive the most accurate and health-supportive advice tailored to your needs.

How Functional Nutrition Approaches Counter Widespread Myths