5 Misconceptions Filipinos Have About Healthy Eating

By law of supply-and-demand, healthier options generally cost more

1. Healthy foods are too expensive.

You don’t have to break the bank when buying good food. Most people think that buying this type of food from this store is the only way to be healthy. But no. Chicken, fish, vegetables and fruits aren’t high-end foods. You can buy healthy foods at a lower price in palengkes and tiangges. Fortunately, those are ubiquitous in the Philippines.

2. Eating healthy food everyday is hard to do and maintain.

This is relative. If you want to be healthy, you won’t make any excuses and actually EAT WHAT YOU HAVE TO.  It’s not hard to be healthy. Don’t think of it as a “diet” to get you to fit in that shirt, or a way to get your ex back. Think of it as a tool to get better.

3. You are forbidden from eating sweets, and junk food. Forever.

Some people opt to eat healthy because of complications, while others simply want a better lifestyle. It really depends on you. For serious athletes and bodybuilders, sugar is the enemy. But for the rest of the population, giving up sweets and junk food is a no-no. Luckily,  it’s been proven that moderation is key when you plan on being healthy. Try to limit your sugar and junk food to a few servings once or twice per week.

Most Filipinos when eating something without rice

4. Healthy food seems boring and flavorless.

No. Healthy food encompasses a broad spectrum of ingredients. Healthy food doesn’t just mean eating broccoli with chicken. It’s not easy to get bored with healthy food. There are many varieties of whole grains, fruits and vegetables. You can do a lot of dishes with chicken, beef, and fish. There are thousands of combinations, it’ll just depend on your creativity with cooking.

5. Fat is bad for you.

Fat is actually needed by the body. It’s a source of energy, helps the body absorb nutrients, and needed to build cell membranes. Fat doesn’t make you fat, sugar does (Google it and educate yourself). You can eat fat, but stay away from the bad ones. Good fats are monounsaturated fats (olive oil, avocados), while polyunsaturated fats can come from some nuts and fish. Refrain from eating factory made trans-fat, which is found in fast food.