Empty Promises

Some allegedly healthy habits may not be so helpful after all. Here are six you can stop right now.

- Charlotte Hilton Andersen

CALCIUM SUPPLEMENTS

“A recent analysis performed by researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine, Maryland U.S. suggests that although a diet high in calcium-rich foods appears to be protective, taking calcium in the form of supplements may be associated with increased risk of plaque buildup in the arteries. Bottom line: Eat calcium rich foods such as dairy products and leafy greens and skip the pills.”

ANDREW D. ATIEMO, MD, FACC,

a cardiologist in Flagstaff, Arizona

ORGANIC JUICING

“Juicing has an undeserved health halo. Sure, you can drink your vitamins and minerals, but you also get a lot of sugar. The worst aspect of juicing is that it strips fruits and vegetables of their fiber, which mediates blood sugar response, contributes to satiety, and promotes bowel regularity. Just eat the produce.”

EMILY BRAATEN, MS, RD, LD,