The Truth About Microwaves
Microwaves get a bad rap.
At least once a week, I stumble upon a “wellness blog” where a science-butchering, fearmonger is talking smack about this incredibly convenient kitchen appliance.
The laundry list of offenses committed by the modest microwave is extensive.
Some common accusations include:
- Microwaves leak dangerous amounts of harmful radiation.
- Microwaves destroy food’s “life energy” and reduce nutritional value.
- Microwaves denature, aka “kill,” protein.
- Microwaving food creates toxic, carcinogenic compounds which will cause cancer.
These claims aren’t cool.
And (not a huge surprise to my fellow science nerds), they’re not true.
Want to know the truth about microwaves? I’m zapping the myths in today’s episode of “The Sitch” in #WhitsKitch.
If you liked the video, please subscribe to my YouTube channel for more myth-busting nutrition videos and fun, effective workouts.
Amanda Howard says:
Thanks for this Whitney! It’s always concerned me the reports regarding microwaves so this is very helpful!
Whitney English says:
So glad you found it helpful! There are way too many websites trying to scare people with misinformation!
Gillian Findlay says:
My family bought the first microwave ever sold in South Africa. That was in the 1970s and we have used a microwave everyday since. My mum will be turning 94 next month, which must go some way to busting the myth of microwaves posing health risks.
Whitney English says:
That’s amazing! Anecdotal evidence right there :) Happy early birthday to your mum!
Patti Cakes says:
Thank you for putting my mind at ease about this, Whitney!
Whitney English says:
You’re welcome! Enjoy your warm food ;)
Krissy @ Pretty Wee Things says:
Your microwave is so fancy! I need me one of those! I try not to microwave my food when cooking from scratch, but when it comes to reheating food it’s a no-brainer. Especially for my son who is SUPER impatient. Even the microwave takes too long.
For me, the most worrying issue when it comes to microwaves is actually not food in the microwave but plastic in the microwave. I.e. packaged meals that can be heated in their containers or heating food in plastic containers.
Whitney English says:
Haha thanks!! It’s kind of weird but we like it :)
I totally agree with you about the plastic. It’s definitely not a good idea to microwave it with food. I didn’t get into that in this video but you can see that when I microwave things, I always use glass or ceramics – no plastic or Styrofoam up in here!!
Jennifer Sinquefield King says:
Thanks! I’ve seen the articles online about how dangerous microwaves are. I feel a lot better about having one in my kitchen!! Love that you back it with research!!
Whitney English says:
Glad to put your mind at ease!! Thanks for the feedback Jen :)
Alisia says:
Oh and my love for microwaves continues. Nothing better than instantly warm food :) Happy Friday!
Whitney English says:
Right on girl! xoxo
Tara Williams says:
Thanks for the great information Whitney! I had a friend a couple years ago convince me that microwaves were dangerous. She did a small experiment with beans and microwaving the water.
For whatever reason, the beans that were given the microwaved water, didn’t grow. So naturally I thought that my food would have some issues.
I’m pretty sure now that it had nothing to do with the microwave.
Thanks again!
Tara
Rosenbaum says:
I’ve been using a microwave for years and I’m the picture of perfect health.
Heather says:
I was always concerned by the reports regarding microwaves so this is very helpful! Thanks for sharing :)
Eduardo L. Miller says:
Good read! I must talk about the way you’ve organized your ideas and thoughts on the MICROWAVES. I think you can help us even more by adding some more relevant insights into the topic. However, the post still gives us a head start to the next update to our website Modern Fury. Thank you!
Halina says:
This is new to me. I really enjoy this great reading and informative article. Thank you for sharing this amazing article.