Myths that Matter

In today’s busy, hectic world, eating on the run, especially at lunch time, has become normal for many working people. Having worked jobs that have no designated lunch hour, requiring me to eat meals on a catch-as-catch-can basis, I had to learn to eat quickly or risk not having time to eat at all. A coworker of mine in the hotel industry once said that it doesn’t matter if you eat fast or slow, it all goes the same place and does the same thing. This is a myth.

After years of “efficiency eating” I finally realized the error in his logic. The real fact is, slowing down while eating is beneficial in a number of ways. First, it allows you to actually taste and enjoy your food. Secondly, deliberately pausing between bites compels you to chew each bite more thoroughly, assisting in the digestive process. This, in turn, can help prevent issues like heartburn and stomach upset. Finally, by eating slowly you allow your brain time to distinguish when your body’s hunger has been satisfied. Doing so helps prevent overeating and the bloated, stuffed feeling which often occurs when you empty your plate before your body acknowledges satiety.

Another common food consumption myth is that you can eat whatever you want as long as it does not amount to too many daily calories. I avoid calorie counting for just this reason. While you must be aware that your caloric intake is not excessive, increasing the quality of your food choices is ultimately more important than decreasing the quantity of calories consumed. Healthy foods high in nutrients provide the necessary high-grade fuel for your body to burn during regular daily activity and exercise. Candy, sodas and other such items contain empty calories and provide little or no nutrients to fuel your body, quickly leaving you hungry and listless.

You may also have heard that it doesn’t matter how much exercise you do, as long as you do it. This is not a myth! If you need to lose weight, but have problems with mobility because of weight related issues, don’t give up before you start. Start small. Every minute counts. Every step counts. A walk around the room will lead to a walk around the house, around the block, around the park, and so on. Your body will respond positively to your efforts.