10 Common Myths About Weight Loss
Weight loss can be confusing, frustrating, and sometimes seemingly impossible. It doesn’t help that there’s a lot of misinformation out there. As consumers, we are constantly bombarded by “miracle” weight loss pills, shakes, and diets. There seem to be a never-ending string of articles about things you should and should not eat. With all this information, it is hard to know what will work for you.
Overall, restricting certain foods from your diet is never a good idea. For sustainable weight loss, stay away from yo-yo dieting and set realistic goals for an ongoing healthy lifestyle. Try to strike a balance between healthy foods and the foods you love. The same goes for your workout plan, remember quality over quantity. A longer workout doesn’t always mean you’ll see more results.
While there is a lot of truth to “calories in” versus “calories out,” keep in mind that this does not mean that all calories are equal. For example, some food takes more energy to digest than other foods. Also, some foods can actually boost your metabolism.
Having a hard time distinguishing the truths from all the weight loss myths? Take a look at these common weight loss myths. As always, you should check with your doctor before beginning a new weight loss program.
Disclaimer: The information in this content is for general informational purposes only, not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your lifestyle.
Cardio is the Best Way to Lost Weight
Not always. Cardio is a great way to get your heart rate up and improve your cardiovascular health, but if you really want to boost your round-the-clock metabolism, build muscle.
Low-Fat and Fat-Free Foods Will Make You Lose Weight
Just because something is fat-free doesn’t mean it’s low in calories. Most importantly, weight loss will never occur unless the calories consumed are less than the calories burned on a daily basis.
Skipping Meals Will Help Boost Weight Loss
Skipping meals seems like it would be a good way to cut out calories, but instead, you are sending your body into temporary starvation mode. If your body doesn’t know when it can expect the next meal, it is going to start hoarding calories instead of burning them.
Carbs Are the Enemy
A sustainable diet does not restrict food groups. If you want to lose weight, and maintain that lifestyle, allow yourself to have everything in moderation. Of course, it is best to choose nutrient-rich foods for a healthy body.
Fad Diets Are A Good Way to Mix Up Your Weight Loss Plan
Not necessarily. Fad diets might help you lose weight fast, but odds are you won’t be able to keep up the diet forever. As soon as your done with the program, the pounds are likely to come back. Find a nutritional lifestyle that is sustainable.
Skipping Breakfast is a Good Way to Cut Out Calories
I know you’ve heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but it’s true! Eat within 30 minutes of waking to get your metabolism jump-started for the day. A healthy breakfast tells your body, “Hey, I’m awake, let’s start burning some calories!”
As Long As You Burn More Calories Than You Take In, You'll Be Healthy
Now, it does come down to calories in, versus calories out…however, if your calorie count consists of mostly donuts, you’re probably not going to feel very great. Just because you’re not gaining weight, doesn’t mean your healthy. Be sure to cram as many nutrients as you can into your daily allotment of calories in order for your body to feel and perform it’s best.
Lifting Heavy Weights Will Make You Fat
This myth is typically believed by women. Oftentimes, women avoid lifting heavy weights because they don’t want to bulk up like a bodybuilder. There’s nothing to worry about, women naturally do not have the amount of testosterone that it would take to build big bulky muscles. Lifting heavy is the fastest way to sculpt a lean, toned body.
The Longer You Run the More You'll Lose Weight
Running for longer periods of time will not necessarily boost your calorie burn. If you want more bang for less time, try weight lifting to build muscle that will boost your overall metabolism.
You Have to Give Up the Foods You Love to Lose Weight
When you’re dieting, cutting out desserts may only lead you to cheat and binge on them later on. If you love desserts, then let yourself have one from time to time, or satiate that sweet tooth with a healthy snack of chocolate covered almonds.
