There are lots of myths and old wives' tales about food and healthy eating. Below are just a few to set you thinking …
Is healthy food more expensive?
No, it doesn’t need to be. Shop wisely, for example buy vegetables that are in season, make large batches or try padding meat out with beans and pulses.
Is missing breakfast a good way to lose weight?
No, it is the most important meal of the day! If you miss breakfast you are unlikely to catch up on the missed vitamins and minerals, and are more likely to snack throughout the day.
Is having a traditional cooked breakfast in the morning is an unhealthy choice?
Not always - If you grill lean bacon, poach the eggs and include baked beans, grilled tomatoes and mushrooms cooked without fat, and serve it all up with thick crusty bread, you'll have yourself a delicious cooked breakfast that is also healthy and balanced.
If the label says 'low fat' or 'reduced fat' then will the product always be a healthy choice?
Not necessarily - to claim that a product is 'reduced fat' the amount of fat must be at least 30% lower than standard products. But these types of foods tend to be high in fat and energy in the first place.
Will I put weight on if I eat late at night?
No, eating late at night will make it hard to sleep as your body is busy digesting the food, but will not make you put weight on. The simple fact is you will put on weight if your calorie intake is more than your calorie expenditure, regardless of what time of the day you consume the calories.
For other food myths or information about healthy eating visit www.eatwell.co.uk or Change 4 Life.