Food myths to leave behind in 2026

It’s a question that many of you probably ask every day: what should we do for dinner?

If you’re trying to reach health goals, it may be harder to find an answer to that question, and experts say wrong food choices are made every day because of certain misconceptions.

To well-meaning friends, food trends can spread like fire, and they’re not always true.

“As anyone who’s tried. Any food trend is not a one-size-fits-all,” said Julia Zumpano, Registered Dietitian, Cleveland Clinic.

Zumpano said the first common myth to lose weight is that you have to give up all your favorite foods.

“Maybe you have it a little less often and a smaller portion, but I think all foods can fit into a plan,” said the dietician. “It’s most important to choose whole grains and a very balanced diet, and you won’t have any issues with weight gain.”

Going gluten-free is healthier, Zumpano says, if you have gluten sensitivity. “Yes, avoid gluten,” but she says that doesn’t equal weight loss.

“Gluten-free products are pretty much the same product.”

You don’t need to avoid all fats to lose weight, either.

“Fat is essential to our bodies,” but she says to limit the intake and focus on eating healthy fats.

Finally, going vegetarian to lose weight and be healthier is also a myth.

“Simply avoiding meat doesn’t necessarily equate to healthier outcomes. You may not be meeting your protein, calcium, or other nutrient needs. Make sure you get all your nutrient needs by the food choices you’re making.”

One more myth that Zumpano says she often hears is that dairy products are fattening and unhealthy.

“That’s false because it’s an important food group providing needed nutrients, but she says, like everything else, keep portions of dairy products controlled -- and for those who can’t tolerate dairy, choose alternatives.”

The Gayly online. 12/27/25 @ 1:00 p.m. CST.