Strong Beliefs, Loosely Held
Beliefs around nutrition have been ingrained in us for years, possibly starting at very early ages.
When we keep hearing the same message over and over and over again (whether it's right or wrong), it's in our psychology to begin to believe this message.
Certain nutritional information seems to be reaching ideological status for large swaths of our population.
Or, even if we logically understand the truth about the information, there's something in us that doesn't allow the change in belief.
For example, carbs make people fat!
This message was constant for quite some time and still continues today, even with evidence showing otherwise.
And I admit, I was guilty of this belief like many.
But, I was, and always will be, willing to change my mind based upon new and better evidence.
So what does the evidence show regarding carbs making us fat?
A. Low-fat diets were slightly more effective at lowering total cholesterol and LDL ("bad") cholesterol that is primarily associated with increasing risk of cardiovascular disease.
B. Low-carb diets were more effective at increasing HDL ("good") cholesterol which assists in protecting the heart.
C. NEITHER DIET was more effective than the other at reducing weight, blood pressure, glucose and insulin levels.
(Meta-analyses in the American Journal of Epidemiology, 176, supplement 7, Oct 2012)
Whatever your goals may be, whether overall improvement in health, weight loss, strength, etc., being strong in your nutritional beliefs is great.
But don't get so stuck in those beliefs and not allow yourself the ability to pivot, even in the face of stagnation or even regression.
Be open to new ideas and evidence. This is the path to continuing the advancement of your nutritional knowledge, thus leading to improvement in health. Be thirsty my friends!
As always,
GIVE YOUR BODY WHAT IT NEEDS, WHEN IT NEEDS IT!
Jaime Rothermich
RD CSSD LD PPSCxKB CSCS
Functional Elements Training & Nutrition
TRAIN FOR LIFE
Is Functional Elements Right For You?
The 14-day 360° gives you 14 power-packed days to find out.
START NOW
