Anna Hartz
Dietitian Destroys Viral Health Myth
Every few months, a new diet takes over the internet. From raw food to juice cleanses to all-meat meal plans, it can feel like everyone is searching for the next quick fix.
Social media is full of big claims. But what’s true and what’s just noise?
Dietitian Vanessa Rissetto joined the Caps Lock podcast to break down some of the worst advice out there, writes EatingWell. She picked four major trends that sound healthy but aren’t always smart.
The Carnivore Diet
Only eating meat sounds extreme. That’s because it is. This diet skips fruits, veggies, and grains.
That’s a recipe for constipation and vitamin problems. Red meat can give you iron and vitamin B12.
But too much of it has been linked to colon cancer. Better to mix things up. Fatty fish, beans, tofu, and nuts offer more balance.
Avoiding Nightshade Vegetables
Some people now think tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers are bad. These vegetables are part of the nightshade group.
Online, some claim they cause inflammation. But that’s not true for most people. Unless you have a specific allergy or condition, nightshades are safe.
They even help lower inflammation thanks to nutrients and plant compounds.
Too Much Protein
Everyone’s trying to pack in protein. Some TikTok trends even tell you to eat your body weight in grams every day.
That’s way too much. Most people already get enough. The average adult only needs about 0.36 grams per pound of body weight.
More protein won’t give you extra muscle if your body doesn’t need it. And you could be missing out on other good stuff, like fiber and antioxidants from fruits and veggies.
Chugging Electrolyte Drinks
Electrolytes are useful after hard workouts or when you’re sick. But you don’t need them after a regular gym class.
Water is enough for most days. And many of those drinks are full of sugar. That’s not great if you’re trying to be healthy.
Bottom Line
You don’t need trendy diets to be healthy. Eat a variety of foods. Move your body. And talk to a real expert, not your favorite influencer.
