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5 food myths to keep in mind this Thanksgiving


Ever wondered if Thanksgiving’s perfect bird really makes you sleepy? Does a second helping of cranberries ward off UTIs? We’re tackling food myths before the biggest eating day of the year arrives. Now, can someone please pass the gravy? 


Candied yams are made from animals
The confusion with candied yams comes from the marshmallows typically used as a topping. While some marshmallows are made from artificially produced gelatin, most use gelatin created from animal products. There are, however, recipes for candied yams that don’t call for marshmallows at all.


Turkey makes you tired

Turkey does contain tryptophan, an amino acid that causes drowsiness. However, you have to eat an awful lot of it on an empty stomach for it to make you sleepy. The more likely cause of your post-feast desire for a nap? All of those carbs.

Sweet potatoes are better for you than mashed potatoes
When you’re looking at a naked sweet potato vs. a naked Yukon potato, sweet potatoes do have more nutrients. But once you add marshmallows, butter and sugar to one, and heavy cream to the other, you’re splitting hairs when it comes to nutrition. Take a look at your recipes and then the nutrition label on various ingredients before making your choice.

Green beans = totally healthy

Green beans are a great veg by themselves, but when you add the creamy mushroom soup and the fried onion topping that the traditional casserole calls for, you’re adding tons more salt and fat than you bargained for. Have a small serving to satiate your palate, but don’t pack your plate with this tasty but not-so-healthy option.

 

Cranberry sauce treats UTIs

Research has shown that drinking cranberry juice as a part of your daily diet can help your body ward off urinary tract infections (UTIs). That's the good news, but cranberry produtcs have not been proven to treat an infection, and their effects are still being studied.

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by GL | 2/1/2016
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