Nutrition Myths and Body Positivity with Manu Palop

Is eating less always the solution? Do carbohydrates make you fat? Is nutrition just counting calories? These are some of the most widespread, but also most mistaken, beliefs about how our body works.

In an episode of ZZEN Talks we spoke with Manu Palop, dietitian, personal trainer and communicator with a deeply human and realistic vision of wellbeing.

From his experience helping real people transform their relationship with food, Manu dismantles many of the most popular nutrition myths and offers a critical look at the role of diet culture, fitness marketing and the Body Positive movement.

Why we fall for nutrition myths

One of the key points of the episode is understanding why nutrition myths are perpetuated. As Manu explains, we live in a society that oversimplifies the human body and reduces wellbeing to a question of willpower, kilos and macros. This generates frustration and promotes a toxic view of eating, in which eating becomes guilt and constant self-control.

“People aren't failing. They're following a system that's already designed not to work.”

Manu Palop

With this phrase, Manu invites us to question the traditional model of strict diets and to reconnect with a nutrition that takes into account each person's emotional, social and metabolic context.

10 nutrition myths, dismantled with evidence and empathy

Throughout the podcast we address ten nutrition myths that are still very present on social media, in the media and in consultations.

Eating less is the solution to losing weight

False. Eating less chronically generates metabolic adaptations. The body defends itself, reduces energy expenditure and promotes binges.

Carbohydrates make you fat

False. There's no bad macronutrient. Carbs are energy and have fundamental functions, such as preserving muscle mass.

Intermittent fasting is for everyone

False. It can be useful in certain cases, but it's not a magic formula. For many people with a history of restrictive diets, it can be counterproductive.

You should avoid eating at night

False. What matters is the overall total and the context. Demonising a time slot is simplistic.

Supplements fix everything

False. They're a help, not a solution. They don't replace rest, emotional management or a complete diet.

The more exercise, the better

False. Overtraining without recovery generates more stress and blocks progress. More isn't always better.

Everything is solved with willpower

False. There are hormonal, emotional, social and cultural factors that affect eating behaviour.

Weight reflects health

False. There are diverse bodies and weight ranges compatible with good health. Body composition and habits matter more than the number on the scale.

Emotional eating is always negative

False. Eating is also culture, comfort and pleasure. Demonising it increases guilt and disconnection.

Natural is always better

False. Natural isn't synonymous with effective or healthy. You have to look at the evidence, not the labels.

The role of the Body Positive movement

Manu also reflects on the Body Positive movement, stressing that it's not about promoting a sedentary lifestyle or normalising unhealthy habits, but about stopping punishing bodies and focusing on real health, functionality and the sustainability of changes.

“You can work on your body from respect and not from hatred. And that's also transformation.”

Manu Palop

This approach connects with the values of ZZEN Labs, where we understand wellbeing as a balance between body and mind, not as a race towards physical perfection.

And do supplements have any role

Yes, but as Manu rightly points out, supplements should be understood as a specific help within an integral health strategy. At ZZEN Labs we defend that same philosophy: our products are designed to accompany you, not to replace your habits.

They aren't magic solutions. They're natural tools to reconnect with yourself.

*Extra tip: before adding any supplement, review the two foundations that no product replaces: how much you sleep and how much you really eat throughout the day. If either of the two is broken, that's where the real room for improvement is.

Less judgement, more awareness

This episode of ZZEN Talks with Manu Palop reminds us that nutrition shouldn't be experienced from fear, but from knowledge and respect towards oneself. Moving away from myths doesn't mean doing it perfectly, but making more informed and sustainable decisions.

And if you want to start improving your wellbeing from the base, at ZZEN Labs you'll find natural nootropics designed to accompany you, not to demand more from you.

You can listen to the full episode on Spotify: ZZEN Talks by René ZZ with Manu Palop.