Nutrition can be overwhelming, especially with so much conflicting information floating around. Let’s dive into some common myths, uncover the truth, and shift your perspective on food and its role in your health and fitness journey.
Myth #1: Nuts Are a Protein Source
Nuts are often marketed as a protein powerhouse (it’s a myth!), but let’s clarify: nuts are primarily a fat source. While they do contain protein, it’s not enough to rely on them as your main protein source. For example, a serving of almonds (about 23 nuts) has around 6 grams of protein and 14 grams of fat. Compare that to a lean protein source like chicken breast, which delivers over 20 grams of protein with minimal fat.
The takeaway: Nuts are a great addition to your diet for healthy fats, but if your goal is to hit a specific protein target, look to lean meats, eggs, dairy, tofu, or protein powders.
Myth #2: There’s “Good Food” and “Bad Food”
Let’s get one thing straight: food isn’t inherently good or bad. Labeling food this way can create an unhealthy relationship with eating. Instead, think of food as being more or less beneficial for your goals.
If you’re aiming to build muscle or improve performance, nutrient-dense foods like lean proteins, whole grains, and vegetables will help you get there. More HERE!
If you enjoy a slice of cake at a party, that’s not “bad”—it’s part of a balanced life. The key is moderation and understanding how your choices align with your goals.
The takeaway: No single meal or food will derail your progress. Focus on the bigger picture and make choices that support your goals most of the time.
Myth #3: I Shouldn’t Eat Right Before Bed
You’ve probably heard the advice to avoid eating late at night, but what if you haven’t eaten much all day? In this case, going to bed hungry isn’t the better option.
Your body needs fuel to recover and perform basic functions, especially if you’re active. Skipping meals or not eating enough during the day can leave you undernourished, impacting your energy, recovery, and progress.
If you’re hungry before bed, choose something light and easy to digest, like a small protein shake, Greek yogurt, or a handful of berries with cottage cheese.
The takeaway: Eating late at night isn’t inherently “bad.” It’s about your overall calorie and nutrient intake. Fuel your body when it needs it—whether that’s morning, afternoon, or evening.
Final Thoughts on Myths and Nutrition
Nutrition doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require some clarity and consistency. By understanding the purpose of different foods and how they fit into your goals, you can make informed decisions that align with both your short- and long-term health. There are so many myths out there to trip you up!
But knowledge alone isn’t enough—success comes from putting that knowledge into action through sustainable systems. That’s where nutrition coaching comes in.
With the right guidance, you’ll not only understand how to fuel your body but also create habits that stick. Nutrition coaching provides personalized strategies tailored to your goals, taking the guesswork out of meal planning and helping you stay accountable.
Ready to Take Your Nutrition to the Next Level?
If you’re ready to stop guessing and start making progress, our nutrition coaching program is here to help. Whether you want to build muscle, improve performance, or simply feel better in your day-to-day life, we’ll work with you to create a personalized plan that fits your needs.
Click HERE to sign up for nutrition coaching or talk to your coach to learn more. Let’s work together to fuel your success—because what you eat today impacts the athlete and person you’ll become tomorrow!
Listen to our blog episode on nutrition: