Nutrition plays a vital role in achieving and maintaining a healthy body, but with the abundance of fitness advice and dietary trends out there, it’s easy to get confused. Yasmin Karachiwala, the renowned fitness coach of Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif, has been an advocate for a balanced and sustainable approach to health. With years of experience in the fitness industry, Karachiwala has debunked several myths that many people still believe when it comes to nutrition. Let’s take a look at the top five nutrition myths that she’s busted.
1. Carbs Make You Gain Weight
A common myth circulating in fitness circles is that consuming carbohydrates leads to weight gain. While it’s true that overeating any macronutrient can cause weight gain, Karachiwala clarifies that carbohydrates are an essential part of a balanced diet. In fact, they are the body’s primary source of energy. The key is choosing the right kind of carbs, like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and eating them in moderation. Avoiding processed carbs, like white bread and sugary snacks, is more important than cutting carbs altogether.
2. Skipping Meals Helps You Lose Weight
Many people think that skipping meals is an effective way to lose weight, but Karachiwala says this is a big mistake. Skipping meals can cause your metabolism to slow down and lead to overeating later in the day, especially when hunger strikes. Instead of skipping meals, she suggests eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to maintain energy levels, keep metabolism active, and prevent cravings.
3. All Fats Are Bad for You
Fats have long been villainized in the world of nutrition, with many assuming that all fats contribute to weight gain and poor health. However, Yasmin Karachiwala debunks this myth, stating that healthy fats are essential for the body’s functioning. Fats from sources like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil are crucial for brain function, hormone production, and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. The trick is to avoid unhealthy trans fats and focus on unsaturated fats, which can actually support a healthy metabolism.
4. Protein Shakes Are Necessary for Building Muscle
Protein is important for muscle growth, but Yasmin emphasizes that you don’t need to rely on protein shakes to meet your daily requirements. While protein supplements can be useful for those with specific fitness goals or dietary restrictions, whole food sources of protein, such as eggs, chicken, legumes, and tofu, are just as effective in building muscle. The key is ensuring that your diet contains enough protein to support your activity level and overall health.
5. You Can’t Eat Sweets If You Want to Be Healthy
Many people avoid sweets when they’re trying to eat healthy or lose weight, but Karachiwala believes that depriving yourself of your favorite treats can backfire. She stresses that moderation is the key. Enjoying a small serving of sweets occasionally will not sabotage your health or fitness goals. It’s important to maintain a balanced approach to eating, where indulgence doesn’t lead to guilt, but instead is part of a sustainable and healthy lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
Yasmin Karachiwala’s perspective on nutrition is grounded in balance, moderation, and whole foods. Rather than adhering to fad diets or restrictive eating habits, she encourages her clients, including Katrina Kaif, to adopt a sustainable approach to nutrition that supports overall wellness. By debunking these common myths, Karachiwala helps us understand that achieving a healthy body and mind requires a holistic and informed approach to food.
So, the next time you hear a nutrition myth, take a step back and evaluate whether it aligns with a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
