Did you know the word "gullible" isn't in the dictionary?!

Okay, so maybe you didn't fall for that one. But many of us are so gullible when it comes to nutrition! We hear about the latest in food news and put all our trust into it - It's a scientific research study, so it can't be wrong, right?! But with every "breakthrough" study, we get more and more confused. For example, studies used to say omega-6 fatty acids are bad, and now they say they're good!

The key is to let go of the small details and focus on the bigger picture. Don't fall for every study you hear about! The basics of health have and will remain constant. To illustrate this point, here's a list of dietary guidelines from 1959, as reproduced in the book Food Politics by Marion Nestle:

1. Do not get fat, if you are fat, reduce.

2. Reduce saturated fats, the fats in beef, pork, lamb, sausages, margarine, solid shortenings, fats in dairy products.

3. Prefer vegetable oils to solid fats, but keep total fats under 30% of your diet calories.

4. Favor fresh vegetables, fruits, and non-fat milk products.

5. Avoid heavy use of salt and refined sugar.

6. Good diets do not depend on drugs and fancy preparations.

7. Get plenty of exercise and outdoor recreation.

8. Be sensible about cigarettes, alcohol, excitement, business strain.

9. See your doctor regularly, and do not worry.

Even though this was written 50 years ago, and intended for the prevention of coronary heart disease, it's still completely relevant today! Considering the thousands of research studies trying to come up with the most advanced discoveries, it sure contradicts the phrase "Knowledge is power." More information isn't always better! So stick to the basics, and do not worry ;)