For most of us, it’s a never-ending battle to keep our weight in check as the years go by. And for many, this means chasing after all sorts of solutions and advice, much of which is not science-based and sometimes even utter nonsense.

So, here are a few “myths” which you need to discard along with that pack of Oreos in your pantry. First, there are no foods that provide “negative calories,” i.e., you lose weight just by eating them. So, next time you plan your celery or grapefruit diet, realize that eating low-calorie foods that can boost your weight loss but, by themselves, they’re not going to help you shed the pounds. As well, there is no such thing as “fat-burning foods.” As this recent Washington Post article, and it’s accompanying video, make clear, there are lots of food myths out there that are packaged with seductive marketing that can easily persuade you to purchase them, but the reality is you need to be a savvy consumer when considering such things as immune-boosting or no-sugar-added foods. Ditto on the new genetic tests that suggest if you would just understand your unique “body type,” your food problems could be solved. While genetic testing is providing all sorts of intriguing info about what lies beneath the surface, the reality is the science is just not good enough to give us the magic solution to our own idiosyncratic food and nutrient needs to keep our weight in check.

If these food tricks get you to eat a more wholesome and nutritious diet, that’s terrific but be careful about falling for fake stories about food that sound too good to be true. And remember- there are some “super foods” that can be a real help in creating nutritious, balanced meals with low calories and high nutrient value. So, pull out your pot, stir in some water and read about the benefits of such foods as oatmeal and brown rice.