Navigating the sea of conflicting nutritional advice can be super confusing, especially when it comes to knowing which foods are actually healthy for you.
Consumer Reports is stepping in to help by taking a closer look at some of the foods that spark debate and sharing tips on how to make informed decisions.
When Pilar Ortiz started feeling discomfort and swelling in different parts of her body, she decided it was time to reassess her diet. “I delved into anti-inflammatory diets because the best way to avoid falling into a health crisis is by choosing foods with simple ingredients,” Ortiz explained.
To cut through the confusion, Trisha Calvo from Consumer Reports advises us to scrutinize the information we encounter online, particularly on social media platforms. “Beware of absolutes in food claims,” Calvo said. “Descriptors like ‘100% good’ or ‘toxic’ are often misleading. Nutrition is rarely black and white.”
Take seed oils, for instance. There are those who argue that seed oils provoke inflammation and play a role in severe health issues like cancer, heart problems, and type 2 diabetes. : Here’s the catch: comprehensive studies indicate that folks with higher linoleic acid levels, a type of omega-6 fat found abundantly in seed oils, actually have a lower chance of facing heart disease.
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Calvo reminds us, “For ages, we’ve known that these oils lower bad cholesterol among other advantages. The real concern with seed oils might stem from their widespread use in ultra-processed foods.”
Then there’s raw milk, making a bit of noise lately. Some tout it as being more nutritious than pasteurized versions, but the evidence doesn’t really back that up. In reality, raw milk can harbor dangerous bacteria like Listeria and E. coli, which are reliably eliminated through pasteurization.
Another contentious topic revolves around nightshade vegetables, like tomatoes and peppers. Some individuals assert that these contain solanine, a compound that could lead to inflammation; however, experts argue that this concern might be exaggerated. “The levels of solanine are very minimal, and its link to inflammation isn’t well established. Besides, these vegetables are loaded with antioxidants that combat inflammation, so don’t dismiss them entirely,” advises Calvo.
For anyone serious about health, Consumer Reports emphasizes the importance of leaning on credible sources. Look for experts who have reputable credentials such as RD, MD, or Ph.D., particularly those linked to recognized hospitals, universities, or trustworthy agencies.
