The Difference Between Food Trends and Nutrition Myths

New food trends pop up all the time. One week it is mushroom coffee. The next it is a probiotic soda that promises to fix your gut health. With so much noise online, it can be hard to know what is actually good for you and what is good marketing. Brittany Champney, a clinical dietician at Riverside Healthcare, helps cut through the confusion.

What Does a Clinical Dietician Actually Do?

Many people think dieticians only help with weight loss. But, the job goes much further than that. Champney works with patients dealing with heart disease, kidney problems, and other conditions. She helps with tube feedings, low-salt diets, kidney-friendly meal plans, and more. "It definitely goes beyond the weight loss," she says, adding that it is one small part of a much bigger picture.

How to Spot a Trend That Is More Hype Than Help

When a new food or diet trend comes along, Champney asks a few key questions. Where's the research? Is it safe? Does it actually work? She is also on the lookout for red flags. "If it seems too good to be true, it's probably all marketing," she cautions. Another warning sign? When every influencer on social media is suddenly pushing the same product. "That makes me immediately think there's a lot more marketing involved than whether it's a product that's going to truly provide life-changing results."
She is also warns about diets that cut out entire food groups. "If it's a diet and it's telling you to eliminate an entire food group, it's likely not going to give you long-term sustainable results."

Mushroom Coffee and Probiotic Sodas: Worth It?

Two trends that come up a lot right now are mushroom coffee and probiotic sodas. Champney looked into both, extensively.
On mushroom coffee, she says you will get some antioxidants and vitamins from the mushrooms. Yet, do not expect miracles. "I don't think it's going to change anyone's life. If you prefer the taste, obviously that's totally fine too," she offers. As for probiotic sodas, she sees some value, but keeps it real. "I love Poppi, but I do think [that soda] is mainly for show," adds Champney. "However, they do offer two to ten grams of fiber, and they still are a lower calorie and lower sugar alternative to traditional soda."

The Biggest Nutrition Myth Out There

Ask Champney what myth she wishes would go away, and she does not hesitate. It is the idea that carbs are bad. "Carbs are important for brain function, so we do need some carbs in our diet," she emphasizes. Whole grains like whole wheat bread, quinoa, and buckwheat are also some of the best sources of fiber you can eat.
The real issue, Champney says, is portion size; not carbs themselves. Her simple guide to a balanced plate: half non-starchy vegetables, a quarter protein, and a quarter carbs. That is it.

Nutrition Is Not One Size Fits All

One of the most important things Champney wants people to know is that what works for one person may not work for another. "Nutrition is not a one-size-fits-all approach," she reinforces. "Everybody's calorie needs are different, protein needs are different, food preferences are different." That is exactly why working with a dietician can help. A professional can look at your height, weight, health history, and medications to build a plan that fits you... not someone you follow online.
Before trying a new supplement or starting a strict diet, Champney strongly suggests talking to your doctor or dietician first, especially if you take medication or have a health condition. "These professionals are available to you, and I think it's important to utilize them."

Outpatient Nutrition Services at Riverside

Riverside Healthcare offers outpatient nutrition visits on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. Appointments are available at 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM. All you need is a referral from your primary care provider. Ask your doctor about a referral, and the outpatient team will reach out to get you scheduled.

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