Common Wellness Myths
There are some ideas about wellness that we just know are good for us. Getting enough sleep, moving our bodies, and processing our emotions can help us live happier and more balanced lives. But not every wellness “truth” is actual truth. Sometimes those truths have changed from their initial intent and we’ve lost the original meaning.
Sifting through the information to figure out what is real and what isn’t can be time-consuming and difficult to track. That’s why I’m happy to help you cut through some of the noise and get to the truth and the reasons behind the myths. We’re debunking 4 common wellness myths and giving you alternatives for what you can do instead to really improve your wellness.
Want to get back into a fitness routine, but you need motivation? To read how to get started anyway, click here!
Myth #1 | There’s One Healthy Body Shape
Take a quick scroll through your IG feed and you’ll quickly notice a similar body shape among most health & nutrition influencers. Long and lean bodies with cut stomachs and full peaches rule the algorithm. Now, I’m not saying that those people don’t work hard for their bodies. They do. But thinking that this is the only healthy body shape is a common wellness myth. Instead of trying to force your body into someone else’s ideal, work to embrace your natural shape, and become the healthiest version of yourself. You can still work out to be stronger, or even to lose a few pounds. Exercising to feel good – rather than as a punishment – is enlightened wellness. Need a little push to get started? Give yourself a little more pep in your exercise step with these super flattering leggings. They come in plus size too!
Myth #2 | Detoxes Work
Green tea detox. Juice cleanses. Sure, they may help you quickly drop a few pounds and reduce bloating. But most of that is water weight. Detoxes became popular because they supposedly help your liver reset. The truth is, this is a common wellness myth. There is very little evidence that detoxes work. Your liver doesn’t need rest. It needs consistent and steady eating behavior, so it can process your food and drink. Instead of a detox or cleanse, work to bring in healthier ways to support your gut and digestive system. Eat foods rich in probiotics and reduce your alcohol consumption. You can give your digestive system a boost with these pre- and probiotics in capsule form.
Myth #3 | Carbs and Gluten Are Bad
Oh, man! Carbs and gluten have been on the “bad for you” list for a while now. But carbs and gluten being bad for you is another common wellness myth. Yes, there are people who have sensitivities and allergies to gluten, not to mention Celiac Disease. But for the general population, carbs aren’t bad for us. It’s more the type of carb, rather than the carb itself. Instead of focusing on eating little to no carbs, choose carbs that are high in fiber and are full of vitamins and minerals. It’s not the carbs and gluten that are bad, it’s the empty calories and filler that processed foods contain that you should avoid. Need some inspiration? The recipes in this non-diet approach to healthy eating cookbook are healthy and delicious!
Myth #4 | Eating At Night Is Bad
There’s no real window of time when you should or shouldn’t eat, which makes the idea that eating at night is bad another common wellness myth. The truth is that when people eat at night, they tend to choose unhealthy foods – cue the nachos! And they tend to overeat, so they gain weight because they’ve eaten too much of the wrong thing. Instead of grazing your way through your pantry, try Inner Peace or Stress Relief herbal teas that help soothe your nervous system and may help you get better sleep (yay!)
What common wellness myths do you love to hate? What do you do instead? Let me know in the comments below!
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You should always cite and medical advice.
You are so right, Teena! Thanks for the reminder!