Page 22 - BUZZ Magazine - Issue #5 Summer 2023 | University of Rochester

FOR YOUR HEALTH

FOOD MYTHS
DEBUNKED

by SYDNEY BURROWS

myth Myth: Carbohydrates are bad.
busting often removes fiber and other beneficial nutrients and adds potentially harmful
Answer: FALSE

Not all carbohydrates are created equal, and not all of them are detrimental to
your health. Says Friedman, “Carbohydrates are the primary fuel source that we
have evolved to use and they are crucial sources of energy. Unfortunately, we
have lumped all carbohydrates into one category, but there is a big difference
between an apple and an apple danish, a potato and French fries, and a bowl of
oatmeal and a bowl of Cocoa Puffs. The disparity lies in the processing, which

elements such as sugar, fat, and salt.” The quality of carbohydrates consumed is
more important than the amount, too, so the next time you prepare your
favorite pasta dish, consider using whole wheat pasta, or opt for an
orange instead of a glass of orange juice in the morning.

Myth: You can’t have
too much protein.

Answer: FALSE
Our society focuses a lot on building muscle, the healthiest foods
which is often connected to consuming protein.
While protein is certainly a key factor in a healthy
Myth: Beans are among
diet, daily protein needs are less than the media
portrays. In fact, too much protein can be harmful.
you can eat.
“There’s a big focus in this country on protein Answer: TRUE
but having a diet that is too protein-heavy is a It’s important not to underestimate the
risk factor for cancer and heart disease and can
shorten one’s lifespan,” Friedman says. “We benefits of legumes. These foods, including
need to have protein in our diet, but we need nutrients. Consuming beans and other
to right-size it.” The bottom line is that all whole
lentils, peas, and beans of various colors
foods have protein, and if you eat a well-balanced
and shapes, are rich in fiber, protein, and
diet that focuses on vegetables, legumes, whole
legumes can significantly contribute to
grains, and fruit, you will get enough protein. to meat and can be easily
disease prevention as they help regulate
blood sugar, reduce cholesterol, and
enhance digestion. They also
make an excellent alternative

22 | UNIVERSITY OF ROCHES TER BUZZ MA G AZINE incorporated into many dishes.