Healthy eating is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. We are constantly bombarded with different dietary guidelines and fad diets, which can make it challenging to know what we should be eating for optimal health. With an overwhelming amount of information online and offline, it can be challenging to separate fact from fiction.

It’s not surprising that there is confusion around healthy eating. With so many opinions, myths, and misconceptions out there, it’s no wonder that people get confused about what to eat. Here are some facts to help you navigate the muddy waters of healthy eating:

1. You don’t have to cut out entire food groups to be healthy
One of the most common misconceptions about healthy eating is that you need to eliminate entire food groups, such as carbs or fats, to be healthy. But the truth is that our bodies need a balanced mix of macronutrients (protein, carbs, and fats) to function optimally. Instead of cutting out entire groups of foods, focus on eating a variety of whole, nutrient-dense foods, and opt for healthier varieties when possible. For instance, choose whole-grain bread over white bread and lean proteins over fatty meats.

2. Low-fat doesn’t always mean healthy
Many people choose low-fat versions of foods, such as milk and yogurt, in the belief that it’s healthier. But oftentimes, low-fat versions of foods are full of added sugars and preservatives to compensate for the lost fat. These foods may not have as much fat, but they are not always the best option for your health. Instead, choose minimally processed, whole-food options whenever possible.

3. Processed foods can be unhealthy
Not all processed foods are created equal. Processed foods such as fruits, vegetables, and canned beans are often healthy options. However, ultra-processed foods such as candy, chips, and soft drinks should be limited in your diet. These foods are often high in calories, unhealthy fats, sugar, and salt, which can contribute to health problems such as heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.

4. Protein is important, but you don’t need as much as you think
Protein is essential to our diets, but many people overestimate how much they need. Most adults require 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day, which means that a 150-pound person needs about 54 grams of protein per day. Eating too much protein can put added stress on your kidneys and liver, making it important to consume healthy amounts of protein.

5. Counting calories isn’t the only way to lose weight
Losing weight is not solely about restricting calories. Instead of focusing on deprivation or counting calories, focus on making healthier choices by consuming whole, nutrient-dense foods. Eating slowly and mindfully and paying attention to your body’s hunger and fullness cues can also help prevent overeating.

In conclusion, healthy eating isn’t about deprivation or strict dietary guidelines but instead aims to nourish your body with nutrient-dense whole foods. With the abundance of information out there, separating fact from fiction can be challenging. However, by following these simple guidelines focused on whole, unprocessed foods and balanced macronutrients, you can achieve optimal health without sacrificing taste or enjoyment.