Nutrition Buzzwords… Worth the Buzz?

By Amy Kweller, MS, RD

Reading the latest health news can be interesting, even exciting, and also maddening! The media suggests some interesting things about the public thinking on nutrition – and it isn’t always science-based. Be sure to beware! Nutrition buzzwords are a part of ad campaigns aimed at selling diets, books, supplements, and other products, and unfortunately they’re successful.

There are a handful of popular buzzwords that make me roll my eyes, and I’ll explain why we should stop using them.

• “Good” or “bad” foods: We have to break the diet dichotomy and recognize there is a place for everything. Learn to listen to your body and what it needs.
• Low carb/Keto: These trends suggest foods high in carbohydrates, such as fruits and vegetables, should be avoided. The opposite is true! Cutting out entire macronutrients is not a healthful – or sustainable – practice.
• Superfoods: No capes here. Just because something is high in antioxidants or other nutritive quality doesn’t make it the only choice for your diet. We thrive on variety!
• Clean eating: What exactly is a “clean” or “real” food? Carefully choosing minimally processed foods is reasonable, but excessive restriction can cause nutritional inadequacy.
• Cleanse or detox: Your liver and kidneys already do this, so don’t waste your money or starve yourself. Plus, these extreme measures can be dangerous!
• “Boost” or “jump start” your metabolism: This simply doesn’t mean anything.

Nutrition is not simple. It’s science. It influences–and is influenced by–every aspect of life: biochemical, medical,financial, social, environmental, and so on. Here’s the truth: a perfect diet doesn’t exist. We are all individuals with unique needs, and there is no quick fix to health. But if you’re looking for a change or to feel better, keep it simple. Eat more fruits more vegetables, choose lean protein sources and more plant proteins, and add small amounts of nuts or liquid fats. An active jaunt around the block will help, too. Small changes really do add up, so start with the next bite!

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About Amy Kweller, MS, RD

As a Registered Dietitian, I have a professional relationship with pears. But as someone who loves great food, I also have a personal relationship with pears! So there is no better way to spend my time than blogging about this lovely fruit. I will blog about pears from farm to table; healthy living, cooking, and recipes; the therapeutic benefits of pears and a wholesome diet; and how pears can fit into your lifestyle. I have a background in clinical and community nutrition, and teaching others how to lead healthy, fulfilling lives is my goal and passion – so send me your questions. My hope is that everyone who visits this site will find something that lingers long after the browser closes, and I expect that will be a deeper love of pears!