5 Weight Loss Myths
Forget the rumors, let’s state the facts.
Let’s be real. With so much information available via internet, television and radio, magazines, social media, and word of mouth, it can be difficult to make out where the true information lies. And just when we thought losing weight may be challenging, it’s the dark myths and legends that make it even more tough to do so. We did the dirty work of digging up five common weight loss myths you shouldn’t be following. Listen up!
5 weight loss myths
Myth #1 “If I eat less, I’ll lose more fat”
This has to be the most common dieting myth in the history of dieting myths. News flash! Eating less does not lead to weight loss. Not only are you not getting the proper daily nutrients your body needs to function, but your metabolism will actually hold on to your body fat instead of muscle tissue whenever your body indicates starvation. Not eating will actually trick your metabolism to slowing it down causing you to feel fatigue because your body is malnourished.
Myth #2 “If I work out, I can eat whatever I want”
Wrong. Muscle growth and weight loss take place outside the gym because it’s all about what you do to recover and replenish your body which includes eating a healthy diet. It doesn’t matter if you’re working hard in the gym all day every day, if you’re not eating correctly it’s all a waste of time. Feed your body the proper and wholesome nutrition it needs to flush out unwanted fat.
Myth #3 “All carbs, sugars, and fats are bad”
Says who? Well, let’s acknowledge carbs first. There is such thing as healthy carbohydrates. Healthy carb sources such as fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and beans and legumes are an important, nutrient and fiber-rich part of any diet. Same good news for fats. Consuming healthy fat cuts your appetite, boosts your calorie burning and prevents fat storage. Look to healthy fats such as olive oil, avocados, nuts and seeds, or organically raised lean meats. And then there’s sugar. Yes, it’s true, all processed sugars are a huge no. The key is moderation and finding healthier sugar alternatives like honey, agave, etc. The key is gradually cutting it out of your diet. Trying pairing an apple with some peanut butter or limit yourself to one block of dark chocolate. You’ll get the hang of it.
Myth #4 “Buy only fat-free”
Surprisingly, this is a myth. Just because the label says “Fat-Free” or “Reduced Fat,” doesn’t necessarily mean it’s healthy for you to eat. If anything, they have just as many calories even contain even more sugar and additives to help them better without the fat. Additionally, if you’re buying something that’s fat-free, chances are it’s not a proper or healthy source of nutrition. And if you’re eating a consistent amount of it because you think it’s healthy, you’re probably overeating too. Try finding fresher and wholesome alternatives instead.
Myth #5 “It takes a lot of time and effort to lose weight”
The battle is either a win or lost in the mind. If you’re thinking negative about all the excuses there are to losing weight, chances are it won’t happen. Being able to adopt healthy and positive validations in your mind is what helps you achieve your fitness goals. Losing weight shouldn’t be a burden on your time and energy. Choosing to live healthy should be a lifestyle that will reward you more in life than just losing weight.
