There is a lot of information available about food. This diet. That diet. Organic food. Low fat food. Calories. Carbohydrates. Sugars. Proteins. Can you recognize the food facts from the food myths?

Myth: Low or reduced fat products are a healthier choice

Reduced fat must be at least 25 percent lower in fat than the standard product. So yes, they are healthier than the standard product, but may still have very high fat levels. Fat levels are not the same as calories. Some reduced-fat foods can have even higher calorie levels than the standard product because the fat was replaced by other ingredients that may have a higher calorie level, says Cathy Scanlon, M.S., R.D., UI Hospitals and Clinics dietitian.

Myth: Vegetarian diets are healthier options

It depends on what goes into the dishes. If there’s a lot of cheese, oil, pastry, or cream sauces, or if the veggies have been fried, they aren’t necessarily a healthier option.

Myth: Red meat is higher in fat than poultry

Lean red meat can be low in fat—four to eight grams per 100 grams—if the visible fat is removed. Skinless chicken has one to three grams and white meat contains less fat than dark meat. And remember to cook them without too much fat.

For more information, please call UI Health Access at 319-384-8442, ext. 406, or 800-777-8442, ext. 406.