What Dietitians Wished You Knew

By Sara Butler

Nutrition science is something that is constantly changing, so much so that even dietitians must work hard to ensure they’re up-to-date on the latest research. Even though things seem to be in constant flux, there are some nutrition truths that never change. Here a few things to keep in mind if you really want to eat healthy all the time -- no matter what the latest food fad is.

Food is Not Bad

Some foods are considered good by some people while other foods are considered bad. For many people, foods such as chocolate are bad and completely off limits -- or so they think. The truth is that there’s not food that is completely off limits because everything can be enjoyed in moderation. Any food can fit into a healthy eating plan as long as you enjoy it in smaller amounts.

Fat Shouldn't be Feared

Fat is not the enemy. In fact, fats that are found in things such as nuts, avocados, and seeds are very good for you. Fat-free foods aren’t as good for you and are often filled with sugars to try to make them palatable since the fat has been removed. So, go ahead -- have the full-fat version.

The Body Mass Index isn’t Totally Accurate

The Body Mass Index (BMI) used to be the ultimate way to gain insight into your health, but it’s not as useful as once was thought. The BMI doesn’t tell you much about someone beyond size. There are now several other biological markers that are a better measure of health. Weight matters but is just one part of the bigger picture when it comes to your health.

You Can’t Be Perfect

You should nourish your body as best you can with healthy food choices, but you should strive to be perfect when it comes to nutrition all the time. What you want to strive for is progress, meaning you eat healthy most of the time. If you expect that you’ll eat perfectly healthy all the time, then you’re setting yourself up for failure. You’ll be far more successful if you strive for small changes that help you get closer to your long-term health goals.

You don't have to be a dietician to make good food choices. If you have questions about your eating habits, talk to a chiropractor at The Joint!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Round Rock, Tex.

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