Most people have been told by others what to eat and what to avoid, but it's the experts' opinions one should heed, not the laypersons.

Here is some expert advice that contradicts popular beliefs.

1. Animal fat isn't always unhealthy, it's the amount that matters. A healthy diet consists of 50 percent animal fat and 50 percent vegetable fat from sources such as beans, corn, sunflower seeds and, very importantly, olive oil.

2. Do not assume that white food is better. Refined rice, flour or salt lacks nutrients, such as fiber and magnesium. Unrefined food is healthier because it contains more nutrients and also guarantees that your body will get enough blood sugar.

3. Drinking tea will not damage your skin. On the contrary, tea contains an antioxidant called polyphenol. Therefore, tea can improve one's complexion and help you look younger. Tea can also help cure diarrhea and it also contains fluoride, which helps prevent tooth decay.

4. Brown sugar is not significantly more nutritious than white sugar. Brown sugar does contain a little more fiber, vitamins and minerals than white sugar. But both are high in calories.

5. It is true that fish is good for your health because it is rich in fatty acids that can increase blood flow. That is why doctors often suggest that myocardial infarction patients eat fish.

6. It is true that fiber can help people lose weight. It can also help lower cholesterol levels, improve digestion and reduce the level of sugar in your body.

7. Control the amount of butter you eat. But never eat butter that has been fried until it is black, because it loses vitamin A.

 
Editor: Catherine