A nutrition expert has identified five common wellness myths that many Britons follow despite a lack of scientific evidence. In a recent poll by Wild Nutrition, three in five people said they are confused by the amount of health advice available, and over half have felt misled after following something they saw online.
Breakfast Is Not a One-Size-Fits-All Essential
Isabelle Nunn, head of nutrition science and formulation at Wild Nutrition, challenges the long-held belief that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. She explains that it depends on individual routine, lifestyle, and needs. For weight loss, research from Mayo Clinic shows that intermittent fasting can help improve cholesterol and blood sugar in the short term. However, for diabetics or those who exercise regularly, breakfast remains key for energy. When eating first thing, Nunn recommends porridge oats topped with raspberries, nuts, and seeds for a fibre-rich start.
Your Body Detoxifies Itself Naturally
According to the survey, six in ten respondents believe they need to detox after overindulgence. Nunn clarifies that the liver and kidneys naturally process and remove waste, making juice cleanses unnecessary. Instead of restrictive diets, she advises a balanced diet, adequate water intake, and prioritising sleep to maintain health.
Apple Cider Vinegar Does Not Burn Fat
More than half of Britons (54%) surveyed believe apple cider vinegar helps burn fat, a myth fuelled by social media. Nunn states there is no evidence to support this. While it is fine as a salad dressing ingredient, it should not be viewed as a weight-loss shortcut. She emphasises that changes to overall eating patterns and lifestyle are more effective than focusing on a single food or drink.
Electrolytes Are Not Needed Daily
Electrolyte supplements are often promoted as hangover cures or hydration enhancers, with 42% of respondents thinking they are necessary regardless of activity. Nunn notes they can be useful after workouts or stomach upsets, but normal water and a balanced diet suffice otherwise. She recommends 2.5 to 3 litres of water per day, including water from foods like fruit.
Higher Supplement Doses Are Not Better
A third of people polled believe the highest-dose supplement provides the greatest benefit. Nunn argues that supplements should be chosen based on individual needs and lifestyle, not strength. She advises looking for products with evidence-backed, bioavailable nutrients that the body can absorb, while avoiding unnecessary additives, sugars, and sweeteners. This is crucial as half of adults self-diagnose nutrient deficiencies, yet only 23% seek professional advice.
Fibre Is Key to Overall Health
To improve health, Nunn recommends increasing fibre intake. 'Fibre is not just key to digestive health; it has far-reaching benefits for mind, body and mood,' she says. It feeds gut microbes that support energy, hormonal balance, and sleep. She urges treating fibre as a fundamental part of a balanced diet, not a fad. Simple sources include beans, pulses, oats, seeds, fruit, vegetables, and wholegrains.
