3 Health Myths That Die Hard

Health-related topics and the wellness industry are both inundated with misinformation. The myths that have circulated for decades continue to be repeated because many people stopped questioning their validity years ago. Over generations, these false truths gradually get absorbed as facts rather than recognized as subjective opinions or societal preferences.  

Here are 3 examples: 

“Fresh produce is the ‘most’ nutritious.”  

• This is not always true, because often produce is flash frozen shortly after being harvested (meaning it was at, or close to, its peak ripeness). In addition, frozen fruits and veggies are often a smart choice for those who live alone and struggle to use an entire bag of spinach or container of berries before it spoils. Thanks to extended expiration dates, frozen produce can decrease food waste, which can save money as well. 

“Fat people need to go on a diet.”  

• Being overweight means some people make assumptions about who a person is, and their lifestyle, solely based on physical appearance. The notion of a ‘Good Fatty’ and ‘Bad Fatty’, explains how fat people are viewed differently based on whether they exercise, what they eat, how they dress, etc. These types of snap judgments can be extremely hurtful, plus can do more harm than good when it tempts you to try the latest fad diet or weight loss drug — instead of sticking to a wellness plan that was created with a healthcare provider. But not being on a “diet” doesn’t mean you are lazy or are not trying hard enough. Thus, avoid unhealthy approaches to weight loss that might leave your body undernourished such as skipping meals or prolonged cleanses. 

“‘Policing’ the food choices of others is helpful.”  

• When someone asks you for advice or suggestions, it is an invitation to be supportive by sharing what has motivated you to make healthy living a priority or remain a TOPS member. You can be honest about what has helped you be successful without directly criticizing the eating and exercise habits they may be struggling to change.  

TOPS Club was never meant to be about quick fixes. As a community, we believe the pursuit of wellness is a lifelong journey. For some members, losing weight might be the most important component of that. But for others, their primary focus may be staying physically active to improve or maintain their mental health. We are here to support one another toward the individual goals we have set, knowing that it might be a months- (or even years-) long process. 

So continue to lift each other up daily — during chapter meetings, at TOPS retreats and in shared online spaces like Facebook and Discord. Who would you like to encourage this week? I invite you to make a personal “wellness wish” this Wednesday to a fellow TOPS member via the comment box below. 

May we all have a health-filled start to the holiday season later this month! 

~Rachel