Debunking Food Myths

You've probably seen the posts online: "This food is toxic!" or "Never eat that again!" But before you toss out your favorite snack or cut entire food groups from your diet, nutrition experts say, pause and dig a little deeper.

Nutrition experts at Consumer Reports are helping clear the confusion around some of today's most misunderstood foods. With social media fueling a mix of facts, opinions, and flat-out myths, it's easy to get caught up in the hype.

“Be wary of claims that say foods are 100 percent good or bad or use labels like ‘toxic.’ The truth is rarely that black and white.”

- Trisha Calvo, health editor at Consumer Reports

Take seed oils, for example. They've been accused of causing inflammation and contributing to serious health problems. But research paints a different picture. Studies show that seed oils, especially those high in linoleic acid, may actually help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

The real concern? Many ultra-processed foods use seed oils heavily. But when consumed in moderation and in the context of a healthy diet, these oils can offer heart-healthy benefits, something decades of research has supported.

Another hot topic: raw milk. Some claim it's more nutritious than pasteurized milk. But health experts disagree. Not only is there no strong evidence that raw milk has added benefits, it also carries serious health risks. Without pasteurization, harmful bacteria like Listeria and E. Coli can linger, leading to foodborne illness.

And what about nightshades, vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and potatoes? Some people believe they trigger inflammation due to a compound called solanine. But the solanine content in these veggies is very low, and no conclusive link to inflammation has been proven. In fact, nightshades are rich in antioxidants that fight inflammation.

Bottom line: Before buying into viral health claims, check the source. Nutrition experts recommend looking for credentials like RD (registered dietitian), MD (medical doctor), or PhD, in experts who are affiliated with hospitals, universities, or government agencies.