When it comes to healthy living, there is a lot of misinformation out there. In a recent article, Chicago Now detailed their pet peeves when it comes to health misinformation. Read a sampling below.

Carbs Make You Fat

Healthy carbs are a must have. Whole grains, beans and legumes and fruits and vegetables are required eating for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet. Carbohydrates derived from processed food like white bread, baked goods and white pasta can cause you to gain weight because they are empty calories. Making carbs the villain for the work of junk food is not sound nutritional logic.

Low Calorie Diet Translates to Weight Loss

Eating helps with weight loss by kick-starting your metabolism. Eating less than 1,200 calories per day is not a sustainable nutritional plan and will not help you achieve your long-term fitness goals. So eat up!

Detoxing Helps to Lose Weight

What is meant by “detox” can vary, but what is certain is that if you are starving yourself for days on end for a “cleanse” then you are probably hurting rather than helping yourself. The best thing to do to remain healthy and maintain a healthy weight is eat clean as a lifestyle. A detox usually acts as a quick fix and does little to benefit your overall health.

High Protein Is Best

Protein is the nutrient that we all need; however, eat too much of. Eating high quantities of meat at the expense of fruits and vegetables are contributing to the rise in heart disease and certain types of cancers. Try portioning out your protein consumption with plant-based foods. Protein intake is around 15% to 20% in a healthy diet.

Soy Is Bad For You

Abuse soy and you may have problems just like if you abuse anything else. Soy intake from whole beans, tofu, tempeh and other natural sources have been shown to lower risk of heart disease and certain cancers.

Read more tips at Chicago Now.