Over the past years, it seems as though there’s a new rule every day on healthy eating and nutrition that people should follow. The Internet is so congested with these diet rules that it can be confusing, especially to people who haven’t figured out the right way of eating for their specific needs.
But that’s not the only problem with these “rules.” Perhaps the bigger concern here is how they often make commands that translate as one-size-fits-all when in truth, no one can give such rules. Remember that everyone has different health and medical histories, needs, lifestyles, and budgets to consider. It’s simply difficult, if not impossible, to generalize the rules when it comes to what everybody should eat.
If you want to maintain a healthy overall well-being, here are five generic rules that could be confusing and not entirely applicable to everyone:
Rule #1: Shop the Perimeter
This rule says you must only shop within a particular perimeter of the supermarket – the one where you find fresh food and produce. While the idea is good, if you follow it strictly, you will miss out on some great food items like frozen fruits and vegetables that are packed with nutrients. This is because they are also good for the body and are usually more affordable than fresh ones.
Rule #2: You Need to Cook From Scratch to Be Healthy
Sure, you can be sure about the safety and nutritional value of the food that you prepare from scratch but that doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from pre-made or frozen foods. For instance, you can find salad kits, frozen vegetables, and rotisserie chicken that you can quickly prepare and enjoy. These food items need not be cooked from scratch, and there’s nothing wrong with adding them to your weekly menu!
Rule #3: Drink a Glass of Water to Satiate Your Hunger
Here’s a simple explanation: water is to thirst as food is to hunger. While water can keep you full in the meantime, it doesn’t give you the nutrients your body needs or fuel to burn for energy. When you get too hungry, it might actually lead to overeating, and your body will feel like it doesn’t have a constant supply of nourishment. It’s highly advisable that you hydrate yourself regularly, but when you do feel hunger, please don’t hold your hunger for long!
Rule #4: Eliminate Carbohydrates from Your Diet
With the popularity of the keto diet and other low-carb diets in recent years, it seems normal to see this advice on healthcare news. However, some experts continue to argue that carbs must be taken like other macronutrients because they provide the necessary fuel for physical and mental performances. On top of that, carbs usually contain fiber and vitamins and minerals that the body requires.
Rule #5: Don’t Eat Sugary Fruits
Another common notion is that because some fruits are high in sugar content, they’re automatically bad for you. The truth is that while they do contain sugar, they are also rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber that your body needs. You shouldn’t miss out on those and on the incredibly delicious flavor, of course!
Conclusion
While these five rules are well-intended for sure, it’s still not something that could apply to everybody. As mentioned above, every person has different nutritional needs, and it won’t be good for you to just follow such generalized rules without considering your situation. It’s still best to consult with your doctor or nutritionist, who can provide you with a tailored diet plan that will work best for you.
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