For years, we’ve been told to eat breakfast, avoid fat, and exercise intensely to stay healthy.
But Fredrik Nyström, professor of internal medicine and a senior physician and has been researching health for over 30 years, challenges these norms with research that flips conventional wisdom on its head.
Here are some surprising insights from his studies that may change how you think about health.
Fat over carbs
Carbohydrates trigger insulin production, leading to fat storage in the liver and abdomen.
Also read: 10 Easy Ways to Reduce Your BPA Exposure – and Why It Matters
Fredrik Nyström argues that a low-carb diet makes it easier to maintain a healthy weight.
Don’t go on a diet
Contrary to popular belief, being slightly overweight might actually be healthier.
Research suggests that a BMI of 28 is linked to lower mortality rates compared to a BMI under 25.
A glass of wine a day is fine
Drinking red wine with meals can help regulate blood sugar levels, especially when paired with a Mediterranean diet.
Also read: The eating disorder no one is talking about – but parents should know
Studies suggest that one glass per day for women and two for men is a reasonable amount.
Unexpected benefits of snus
Fredrik Nyström’s research indicates that quitting snus can lead to weight gain and worsened cholesterol levels.
His findings suggest that, in some cases, continued use may have certain advantages.
Don’t overtrain
Intense endurance training can increase the risk of heart issues.
Also read: New treatment breakthrough: Cancer vaccine gives hope to melanoma patients
Fredrik Nyström highlights that individuals who have completed multiple Vasaloppet ski races have three times the risk of atrial fibrillation.
Skip breakfast
Since cortisol levels are naturally high in the morning, consuming carbohydrates early in the day might not be beneficial.
Research shows that people who skip breakfast often experience more effective weight loss.
Nuts and coffee for lunch
Fredrik Nyström himself follows a unique diet routine, often opting for nuts and coffee instead of a traditional lunch when trying to lose weight.
Also read: Easy Ways to Move More Without Hitting the Gym
He believes this helps regulate metabolism.
Medically approved indulgence
According to Fredrik Nyström, occasional indulgences, such as having some fat in your diet or skipping a workout, are not as harmful as often believed. Balance is key.
Rethinking dietary restrictions
The widespread fear of fats may be misplaced. Fredrik Nyström argues that the combination of fat and carbohydrates is problematic, not fat alone.
Questioning mainstream health advice
Despite strong reactions to his research, neither the Swedish National Food Agency nor the Public Health Agency has officially commented on Fredrik Nyström’s findings.
Also read: Bored, Stressed, or Sad? Here’s How to Stop Reaching for Food
This article is based on information from Dagens.se and Nyhetsmorgon.