Surprising News From the Nutrition Facts or Fibs Support Group

Do probiotics actually help your gut? Will that cleanse diet actually help you reach your weight loss goals? During one of our recent Wednesday Support Groups, we tackled nutritional myths and busted some popular beliefs. See what Dr. Mary Litchford, PhD, RDN, LDN, had to say.

Here are a few of the most surprising revelations:

Myth: Probiotic supplements are amazing for your digestive health.

Truth: At our Facts or Fibs support group, Dr. Mary Litchford, PhD, RDN, LDN, unveiled that new research from the American Gastroenterological Association Society states that there is not enough evidence to support the use of probiotics for most digestive conditions, despite popular belief.

In some cases, your doctor has recommended probiotics--so you should always continue to follow what they said. But for the general population the Gastroenterological Society saw minimal benefit, especially with over the counter brands. A number people in our support group even expressed quitting spending money on them.

Myth: Leaky Gut Syndrome can be healed by certain foods or products.

Truth: Leaky Gut Syndrome is not a medical diagnosis.

It is often used in response to unexplained Irritable Bowel Syndrome in recent years. There are promises that certain foods will fill in the “holes”, however, there’s little to no science to show that is true.

Myth: This cleanse diet will help me shed 10 pounds in 4 days.

Truth:  Cleanse diets don’t work.

There is no evidence that they work. Your liver and kidneys are already effective “cleansing” organs—don’t put your body through an unproved method. Some people have experience dehydration and electrolyte imbalances as a result of cleanse diets and are definitely not getting their daily recommended protein amount, so don’t fall for what you see on social media. 

If you have not attended our Wednesday Support Groups yet, it’s never too late to join! Next week on Wednesday, July 8^th,  we have our Bariatric Mixer – register today to get the support you need.