(NC) — This March, join Breakfast for Learning, a national charity dedicated to child nutrition programs, in celebrating Nutrition Month. Presented by Dietitians of Canada, the slogan this year is “Get the Real Deal on Your Meal”, with a focus on busting common food myths. Keep reading to see if you can tell the facts from the fiction:

1. The best way to limit your sodium intake is to stop using the salt shaker.

False. Only 11% of the sodium we eat comes from adding salt during cooking or at the table. Processed, packaged, ready-to-eat, and restaurant food contributes over 75% of the sodium we eat. To decrease your sodium intake, limit your meals that come from restaurants and packaged food items and increase the amount of fresh foods in your diet.

2. Foods that are high in fat are unhealthy.

False. There are some fats that are good for your body. For instance, fish, avocados, nuts, seeds, and nut butters are high in heart healthy fats that are necessary for good health. These food choices are also sources of other vitamins and minerals that keep us strong and healthy. Many foods that are marketed as “low in fat” such as candy, pop, and frozen treats are often filled with sugar and have little to contribute to our health.

3. Eating healthy is expensive.

False. Simple solutions such as selecting produce that is in season or on sale; choosing inexpensive sources of protein such as eggs, beans, and lentils; and avoiding convenience items like frozen meals and pre-chopped fresh veggies, can help lower your grocery bill.

4. You can use some processed food items to make quick and nutritious meal.

True. Foods such as whole grain pasta, canned tuna, and plain frozen vegetables and fruits are examples of healthy processed food choices. However, do limit processed food items that are high in calories, fat, sodium, and sugar, such as frozen dinners and packaged baked goods.

More information about healthy eating can be found online at www.breakfastforlearning.ca. Details about Nutrition Month are available at www.dietitians.ca/nutritionmonth.