What Should I Eat?

Many people are confused about what they "should" eat. What's NOT to be confused about?

One year, eggs are good. Next, we're told to limit egg consumption or to only eat the whites. The University of Minnesota answers Why Does Nutrition Advice Change?. (BTW, eggs are currently considered a good source of protein for most people. Eating the yolk tends to be recommended for the minerals & satiety it provides.)

We are also bombarded by celebrity diets & workouts (although many are unrealistic & some unsafe). Or, a commercial, magazine, or website suggests we try their latest, greatest supplement, pill, meal plan, or fad diet. (Really, who recommends eating cotton balls???)

On the bright side, even nutritionists aren't perfect. Read about it in EatingWell's Diet Mistakes Even Nutritionists Make.

But, being healthy doesn't require perfection! So, Whole Living's Eat Like a Nutritionist & Reader's Digest's What Nutritionists Eat When No One is Watching can share insight from some experts.

Since even the experts don't always agree, aim for variety. Most types of food have benefits. Even some healthy foods may have disadvantages (e.g., nuts are high in calories & fat but it's healthy fat when eaten in moderation). If you have health issues, check out well-regarded sources for specialized advice (e.g., American Heart Association, National Heart, Lung, & Blood Institute, American Diabetes Association, etc.).

If you need more individual guidance, ask your healthcare provider. Some insurance policies may cover visits with a nutritionist. There are also reliable websites (e.g., Choose My Plate's SuperTracker) that allow you to personalize data. Remember, even small changes can lead to big results!