food myths

salmon, canned yellowfin and regular small tuna, are safe. Unlike eating red meat that increases the risk for cardiovascular diseases and cancer, consuming fish five or more times a week helps boost the immune system, improves brain health, prevents blood clots, and reduces the risk for heart attack, stroke and cancer.

6. Unrefined sugars are healthier

A popular myth is that unrefined sugar, like raw sugar, maple syrup, coconut sugar and honey, provides lesser calories. All sugars, except artificial sweeteners, are sugars and carbohydrates, with high calories and fattening. The calories from consuming unrefined sugars should be counted accordingly, especially among diabetics or those trying to lose weight.

7. Processed foods are safe

While it is commonplace to see people all around us eat processed foods like hot dogs, bacon, ham, salami, sausages, processed veggies, etc., they increase the risk for the development of cancers, especially of the gastrointestinal tract, including pancreas and the colon. The risk is greater with meats grilled at high temperature, with burnt edges or surfaces. Eat fresh –it is healthier.

8. Detox pills are necessary

False! These pills or bowel cleaners (irrigation, enemas) could be dangerous to health. The best detox items are foods like vegetables, fish, nuts and fruits, which are all antioxidants and detoxifying agents via our liver, gastrointestinal tract, and kidneys, which are our natural detoxifying organs, day in and day out, 24/7, cleansing our body of toxins and poisons. Eat a healthy diet, avoid processed foods and minimize fast food, drink a lot of water (not poisonous soft drinks) and exercise daily to rejuvenate yourself.

9. Drinking water after 8 PM is good

Not for seniors or anyone who do not want to wake up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom. Even those in their 80s and 90s could avoid or minimize getting up at 2 or 3 AM to empty their bladder if they refrain from drinking after 8 p.m. During the daytime, it is a good idea to drink a lot of water, at least eight glasses a day, to flush our kidneys, keep these “filters” healthy, and get rid of toxic waste through urination.

10. Soft drinks are better than water

Although soft drinks may contain some minerals, they are all (cola or uncola, diet or regular, caffeine-free or not) toxic to the body of adults, and more so to children. The phosphoric acid in them is only one scary chemical, which many use to clean car carburetors or flush a blocked toilet or kitchen drain. All soft drinks increase the risk for metabolic syndrome. They are indeed poison.

11. TV food ads are vetted

Not true. There is no government oversight that screens the ads on TV or other media. There are many claims about products that are not true. Unfortunately, manufacturers and vendors get away with them and ignorant consumers are the victims, and the perpetrators get richer in this trillion-dollar food industry. Caveat emptor (buyers beware)!

12. All veggies are good

In general, yes, they are super-foods, but not for people with arthritis, who should stay away from nightshade vegetables (Solanaceae), which include eggplant, tomatoes, potatoes, bell and cayenne peppers, paprika, etc. They contain toxic alkaloids that aggravate arthritis (neck, spine, hips, knees, etc.) Broccoli, kale, celery, asparagus, green beans, cauliflower, spinach, mushrooms, turnips, beets and bell peppers are the choice veggies for the general population.

Evidence-based scientific data show that eating red meat more than once a week is associated with higher risk for cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and a shorter longevity. * * *

The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health. * * *