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The Worst Nutrition Advice We’ve Ever Heard (And What Actually Works)
Discover the 5 worst nutrition myths (like “carbs are bad”) and learn what actually works for lasting results. Real strategies—not fads—at Sycamore CrossFit.
By
October 16, 2025
We’ve all heard some pretty questionable nutrition advice over the years. Maybe it came from a friend, a magazine headline, or a “wellness” influencer with no real qualifications.
Some of these tips sound harmless — but following them can actually do more harm than good. At Sycamore CrossFit, our nutrition coaching focuses on real, sustainable strategies that build long-term health… not fads.
Here are some of the worst nutrition myths we’ve heard — and what actually works instead.
1. “Carbs are bad.”
This one has been floating around for decades — and it’s just not true. Carbohydrates are your body’s main source of energy, especially if you’re active. Cutting them out completely can lead to low energy, poor performance in the gym, and an unhealthy relationship with food.
✅ What actually works: Choosing quality carbs like fruits, vegetables, potatoes, rice, oats, and whole grains can fuel your workouts, support recovery, and help you feel your best.
2. “You just need to eat less.”
This overly simple advice often leads people to severe restriction, which slows down metabolism, increases cravings, and makes it harder to stick to anything long-term.
✅ What actually works: Instead of just cutting calories, focus on fueling your body well. Prioritize protein, veggies, fiber, and balanced meals that support your activity and lifestyle.
3. “Detox teas and cleanses will help you lose weight fast.”
They might help you lose water weight — but they won’t help you get healthier. Your body already has an amazing detox system: your liver and kidneys. Teas and cleanses can actually do more harm than good and aren’t sustainable.
✅ What actually works: Consistent, balanced nutrition, hydration, movement, and sleep are the real “detox.”
4. “You have to be perfect to make progress.”
Many people believe one “bad meal” ruins everything. This all-or-nothing mindset leads to guilt, inconsistency, and giving up too soon.
✅ What actually works: Progress comes from consistency — not perfection. One meal doesn’t make or break your goals. Building sustainable habits is what gets results.
5. “Protein fixes everything.”
We love protein around here — it supports muscle, recovery, and helps keep you full. But let’s be honest: not all protein is created equal. The protein in a chicken breast is very different from the number on the label of your kid’s crustless PB&J.
✅ What actually works: Protein is important, but so are veggies, fiber, healthy fats, and carbs. A balanced plate matters more than chasing numbers. And that’s where working with a coach can make all the difference.
Why Nutrition Coaching Matters
Nutrition isn’t about fad diets, cutting out whole food groups, or being perfect. It’s about learning how to fuel your body in a way that works for your life.
At Sycamore CrossFit, Coach Emily can help you:
- Understand what actually works for your body
- Build habits that last
- Learn how to eat in a way that supports your goals (without giving up the foods you love)
🥦 Ready to stop chasing fads and start making real progress? 👉 Book a Free Intro and let’s build a plan that works for you.
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