WORST HEALTH & DIET MYTHS

How many times have you heard...red meat is bad for you....or too much salt is bad for your blood presure?
Surprise! A new book called Eat This, Not That clears up all the myths.The book says a well-balanced diet, combined with some smart choices, is all you need to lose pounds and keep most of our greatest health worries at bay.<?xml:namespace prefix = o /> 
Here are 15 food fallacies you can forget for good.Myth #1: Too much protein hurts your kidneys  Reality: Protein helps burn fat, build muscle, and won’t harm your kidneys at all  Myth #2: Sweet potatoes are healthier than white potatoesReality: They’re both healthy!  Sweet potatoes have more fiber and vitamin A, but white potatoes are higher in essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium. Myth #3: Red meat causes cancer  Reality: Research says enjoy the steak!  No study has ever found a direct cause-and-effect relationship between red-meat consumption and cancer.Myth #4: High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is more fattening than regular sugar  Reality: They’re equally fattening. Beware!  Myth #5: Too much salt causes high blood pressure  Reality: Perhaps, but too little potassium causes high blood pressure too  Myth #6: Chocolate bars are empty calories Reality: Dark chocolate is a health food Myth #7: Gas station snacks are nutritional nightmares Reality: Even at filling stations, you’ll find food that isn’t filling. Beef jerky is high in protein and doesn't raise your level of insulin—a hormone that signals your body to store fat. That makes it an ideal between-meals snack, especially when you're trying to lose weight. And while some beef-jerky brands are packed with high-sodium ingredients such as MSG and sodium nitrate, chemical-free products are available. Myth #8: Restaurants comply with nutrition disclosure regulations  Reality: Most restaurants would rather load you up with additional cheap calories  Myth #9: Sports drinks are ideal after-workout refreshment  Reality: You need more than that to keep your muscles growing Myth #10: You need 38 grams of fiber a day  Reality: More fiber is better, but 38 is nearly impossibleMyth #11: Saturated fat will clog your heart Reality: Fat has gotten a bum rap  Myth #12: Reduced-fat foods are healthier alternatives  Reality: Less fat often means more sugarMyth #13: Diet soda is better for you  Reality: It may lead to even greater weight gain Research found that people who drink diet soda on a daily basis have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Myth #14: Skipping meals helps you lose weight Reality: Skipping meals, especially breakfast, can make you fat   Myth #15: You should eat three times a day  Reality: Three meals and two or three snacks is ideal