Food and living go hand-in-hand, and let's agree, we've all tried multiple ways to maintain a healthy diet regime. In fact, these days you'll find numerous internet tips that claim to be more than just passing fads; some have even become mainstream health practices followed by many worldwide. But does that automatically mean these tips offer well-established benefits? Well, not always! Often, we fail to spot the flaws in these dietary patterns, and they can actually have a negative impact on us. Curious about these popular food habits? Let's explore some commonly followed diet trends that are actually bad for you.
The Science Behind Healthy Food Habits:
Eating nutritious food keeps your body and mind strong, helping you stay healthy and wise for the long haul. However, it's crucial to realize that when and how much you eat also plays a significant role in your diet regime. According to health experts, a food habit that works for you may not have the same effect on others-diet regimes vary from person to person based on factors such as age, gender, tolerance, and more. To guide us, scientists, governments, and experts develop dietary guidelines based on scientific evidence. These guidelines offer holistic advice on healthy eating. Let's delve deeper into these guidelines while highlighting common mistakes we make in the name of healthy food habits.
Also Read: 8 Easy Food And Drink Swaps For Healthy Weight Loss
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Here Are 5 'Healthy' Diet Tips That Are Actually Not Healthy:
1. Rethink drinking green tea first thing in the morning:
Green tea has become a staple in our daily routines over the years. Many of us have it as our first beverage in the morning, believing it will help detoxify our system. While it's true that green tea is packed with antioxidants and can aid in weight loss and boost metabolism, it's important to understand that it also contains tannins. These tannins can create acidity in the stomach, leading to constipation, bloating, and even nausea when consumed on an empty stomach. Experts suggest having green tea after breakfast to kick-start your metabolism without any negative effects.
2. Be cautious with daily herbal tea consumption:
Herbal tea has found its way into the diets of fitness enthusiasts these days. However, what many overlook are the potential risks associated with these teas. According to a report by Harvard University, individuals should only consume herbal tea after receiving medical approval, as it may "pose some risks to individuals with certain health conditions." The report further emphasizes that herbal tea should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment.
3. Don't go overboard with calorie-cutting:
Calories often get demonized in our weight loss journeys, but they're not the villains they're made out to be! While you may have grown up hearing "avoid calories," the truth is that calories are essential for your body to function properly. Calories provide the energy your body needs to work effectively. To stay fit and manage weight, the calories you consume should align with the calories your body uses. Experts recommend avoiding excessive calorie intake or completely cutting them out. Instead, consume calories in moderation and ensure you burn them off effectively to maintain a healthy body.
4. Don't eliminate all carbs:
Just like calories, carbohydrates are important for your overall health. Carbohydrates provide your body with glucose, which is converted into energy for all bodily functions. What you need to do is avoid processed carbs that lack nutrients due to extensive processing. Instead, focus on identifying healthy carbs that are rich in fibre and can actually contribute to your well-being, weight loss, and gut cleansing. Some examples of healthy carbohydrate options include lentils, milk and dairy products, oats, apples, and berries, to name a few.
5. Embrace occasional indulgences:
Eating healthily is crucial for achieving your desired health goals, but remember, there's always room for an occasional treat. In fact, experts suggest it's important to have cheat meals at regular intervals to keep your body functioning optimally. Several studies have shown that indulging in occasional treats not only energizes you from within but also boosts metabolism by resetting its functioning. Moreover, it provides a chance to unwind and subsequently return to your health routine with renewed enthusiasm.
Have you been making any of the above diet mistakes? If so, it's time to stop as you may unknowingly be harming yourself! The best approach is to consult an expert and customize your diet regime based on your individual tolerance levels.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.