Lesson 2, "Sports Nutrition Myths", distinguishes important nutritional facts from fiction. It examines what misinformation about sugar, sports drinks, diets, proteins, and caffeine circulate in our society. What myths about these topics have you witnessed? Consider what you have seen in advertisements or read in promotional literature. Do you, your friends, or your family buy into myths about sugar, sports drinks, diets, proteins, or caffeine that may not be true? For example, you could post the following myth about dieting: You shouldn't eat after 8 PM because foods eaten late at night are more fattening.

One common myth about sugar is that all sugar is harmful and should be completely eliminated from the diet. While it’s true that excessive consumption of refined sugars can lead to health issues, naturally occurring sugars found in fruits and vegetables are beneficial and provide essential nutrients.

Another prevalent myth is that sports drinks are necessary for everyone engaging in physical activity. Many people believe that because they are marketed for athletes, they must be consumed during low to moderate workouts. In reality, for most casual exercisers, water is usually sufficient for hydration, and sports drinks are only beneficial for prolonged, intense activities. My friends often debate about these topics, and some have cut out all sugar or invest in sports drinks unnecessarily, which can lead to misinformation about healthy choices.