This week at the TCPJ we decided to become MythBusters. After noticing the same questions time and time again, we figured it was about time we investigate your queries and reveal the truth behind all of these health myths. We tackled the unfounded hype behind the demonization of fruit sugar, the idea that we are simply getting rich off of our customers with unreasonable sky high prices and the “fact” that cold-pressed juices lack any fibre and are thus unhealthy.

With all of these pressing (hehe see what we did there?) questions answered, we thought we’d address a few more common health myths and uncover the truth – or lack thereof – behind them.

1. Fat-free and low-fat foods are always better than full-fat versions. Though it’s good not to overload on bad trans fats, the research has finally come around to prove that the body absolutely needs good unsaturated fats, as they help lower disease risk. Additionally, many processed or packaged goods that are labelled low-fat or fat-free actually compensate for the flavour and texture that fat naturally affords by replacing it with even more unhealthy ingredients like sugar.

2. The longer you exercise, the more you improve fitness. Every once in a while we love a long, leisurely run, but it turns out that short high-intensity workouts are more effective than hours of slower exercises. The good news? You don’t need to spend aeons on the treadmill. Instead, pop into Rocycle for quick sweat sesh to get your heart rate going.

3. Everyone should take a multi-vitamin every day. It would be easy to think that this is a total no-brainer and that everyone benefits from popping multi-vitamins daily, but it turns out that if you’re eating a healthy, balanced diet, you don’t actually need them. So fill up on delicious and wholesome cold-pressed juices, hearty soups and refreshing, crunchy salads and you can ditch that pill bottle altogether.

4. Protein bars are a healthy snack. They certainly are marketed as angelic, healthy food options, but most protein bars are actually nothing more than expensive candy bars with a little extra protein. Instead of grabbing a commercial bar loaded with unpronounceable ingredients and sugar, stock up on our Raw Energy Bar. It’ll fill you up without any of the nutritional baddies.

5. Crunches will give you a six-pack. We’re not saying to ditch them altogether, but just doing targeted ab work will not give you that dreamy flat tummy you’ve been hoping for. In order to tone the area effectively, you also need to incorporate cardio and full-body exercises to help burn away the fat that is often stored around the midsection.

6. Carbs make you fat. As with sugar, not all carbohydrates are created equal. A sweet potato and a sweet cake both contain carbs, but only one is chock full of necessary nutrients and healthy fibre. Your body needs carbs in order to process energy, so choose carb-rich foods such as whole grains, legumes, fruit and vegetables. Our Middle Eastern Tabbouleh is a great option thanks to the quinoa!