Juice cleanses. Low-carb diets. Superfoods. Nutrition myths masquerading as health or medical advice are everywhere.
It's easy to fall into the trap of believing that there's "one crazy trick" that will completely detox your system, help you lose weight, or lower your cholesterol — but you should resist.
INSIDER talked to nutrition pros who helped us debunk common nutrition myths that can harm, rather than help, your health.
SEE ALSO: 13 of the biggest myths about dieting, debunked
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MYTH: Activated charcoal is a superfood.
Activated charcoal is not quite as super as its super-fans would have you believe.
"Activated charcoal is known for its absorption properties ... but it can also deplete your system of good nutrients your body needs," dietitian Grace Derocha, a wellness coach at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, told INSIDER. "Activated charcoal supplements may diminish the effectiveness of medications people take as well." (That includes birth control pills.)
MYTH: Artificial sweeteners are better than the alternative.
Artificial sweeteners aren't as dangerous as many alarmist bloggers make them out to be, but some nutritionists still advise against eating too much of them.
"Many artificial sweeteners are highly processed chemicals and most people’s bodies don’t react well to them, causing digestive issues and even headaches," Derocha said. She recommends adding a bit of honey, agave, or raw stevia root (not the packaged stuff) to your meals instead.
MYTH: Carbs are the enemy.
We already know that gluten-free diets are a bad idea, but Derocha emphasizes that not all carbs are created equal. "Complex carbs found in whole grain or whole wheat foods contain healthy levels of nutrients and fiber," she said. "Simple carbohydrates like white rice and white bread are the type that cause issues due to their lack of nutrients."
Demonizing all carbs leaves no room for this important distinction.
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