Myth-Busters: Food Edition

Did you know that eating carrots actually doesn't improve eyesight? There are a shocking number of food myths that people still believe, and you may be shocked to find out how many of these major falsehoods you were unaware of. Ready to discover if carbs are bad for you, or if low-fat foods are healthier? Find out below!

If there are any food myths you would like me to confirm or bust, comment them below! Maybe I'll do a part two. :)

Myth #1: Our tongues have zones for every taste
Many of us may remember learning in school that we can only taste bitter things on the back of our tongues, and sweet things on the tips of our tongues. However, there are no such things as "taste zones".  We actually have taste receptors for sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami sensations everywhere on our tongues. Comment below if you believed in "taste zones"!

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Myth #2: Celery is "negative" calories
A lot of us have fallen prey to this claim that celery is negative calories, meaning it has less calories than the calories we burn chewing and digesting it. However, there are no scientific studies that have successfully proven this.
(source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/expert-answers/negative-calorie-foods/faq-20058260)

Myth #3: Carbs are unhealthy
Eating excessive carbs is unhealthy, but the right carbs in moderation are actually good for you. Simple carbohydrates, which can be found in whole grains, fruit, and vegetables are easy to digest and can lower your risk of heart disease. On the other hand, make sure to stay away from complex sugars that are in candy, sugary beverages, and refined grains. They aren't filling, and are linked to weight gain.
(source: https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/list-carbs-avoid-weight-loss-3923.html)

Myth #4: Low-fat and fat-free foods are always better for you
While this is true of meat and some dairy items, low-fat processed foods are actually often worse for your health than full-fat foods. Some companies that manufacture these packaged processed foods may make these low-fat claims to make their products appear healthier so more consumers feel comfortable purchasing them. However, they often add in extra sugar in order to preserve a taste that people will still enjoy. Whenever possible, opt for naturally fat-free foods instead!
(source: ​www.thehealthy.com/food/common-food-myths/)

Myth #5: Carrots improve eyesight
This one was surprising. Many of us have heard this myth before, and some of us (like me) actually believed it. However, there is no evidence linking eating carrots with improved eyesight. Check out this link to see how this fascinating myth got its start.