Food fables: fact or fiction?

Carrots help your vision

While carrots are not going to make a blind person see, or correct your short-sightedness, there is definitely a speck of truth in this one, Surinder claims.

'Carrots contain beta carotene, a pre-cursor to vitamin A, which is needed for eye health,' she explains. However, she also adds that 'excess consumption can lead to skin having an orange hue.'

Low-fat diets are the healthiest option

I'm pleased to say, Surinder gives an emphatic 'NO!' for this one!

'Fat is vital for good health. Essential fats are those found in nuts seeds, oily fish and some vegetables.

'They are needed for healthy skin, hormonal balance, a healthy nervous system, brain development, healthy nails and hair, and to help your metabolism to work efficiently. Fat also helps you to feel full, which prevents overeating.'

Tea is good for your heart

'There has been considerable amounts of research into the health benefits of tea and some studies do indicate cardiovascular benefits,' says Surinder.

'However, there is much more evidence to support the use of green tea, compared to black varieties.'

Feed a cold to starve a fever

Surinder explains: 'Theoretically, you need to eat when you are ill in order to get adequate nutrition for your immune system to function.

'However, this does not guarantee you will be prevented from getting a fever if you have a nasty virus.'

Red wine is good for you

Oh I do hope so! But what does Surinder think?

'In moderation, studies have shown that red wine can have cardiovascular benefits because of chemicals that exist in the skins of darker grapes.

'I personally believe that there is a correlation with people who enjoy small amounts of red wine, and who also have an ability to relax and enjoy themselves, which is also very good for your heart.'

Chocolate fights depression

'Chocolate contains substances that can release endorphins or 'feel good'
chemicals.

'It also contains theobromine, a caffeine-like substance that, together with sugar, can give you an instant boost.

'So while chocolate might be able to momentarily lift your mood, I would never claim it could fight depression.'

Spinach has lots of iron and will make you strong

Surinder says: 'Spinach does have nonheme iron but unfortunately some people find this hard to absorb.

'I would certainly recommend people eat plenty of dark green leafy vegetables like spinach, as they are rich in many minerals, including iron but if your iron stores are really low, red meat can sometimes be a more effective solution.'

Animal fats are bad for you

This is a popular belief in our healthy-eating-obsessed society, but Surinder doesn't agree.

'Small amounts of fats such as butter are stable and do not get destroyed by cooking processes. Butter is also a good source of fat soluble vitamins such as vitamin A.

'The more problematic fats are 'trans fats' found in highly processed foods, or when vegetable/sunflower oils are heated to high temperatures.'