Weight loss advice is everywhere, making it tough to know what to trust. That said, there are credible places to turn to for sound advice. A while back, the National Health Service (NHS) broke down some popular weight loss myths in a noteworthy piece.
These myths about shedding pounds are rampant, so always double-check your facts and talk to a healthcare pro for tailored advice.
Here is the truth behind some weight loss misconceptions.
1. Rigorous exercise regime
It is believed that following a rigorous exercise regime is the only way to lose weight, which is not exactly true. This doesn’t consider the human tendency to avoid extremely uncomfortable situations.Â
You’ll need to incorporate small changes and start with more straightforward exercises to stick to for a long time. That is more likely to yield better results.Â
People who spend prolonged time on sedentary activities like web surfing and online work are highly prone to weight gain. Using a fast internet connection like Cox Internet can make your online work faster and reduce your time in sedentary work.Â
2. Healthy food is costly
Eating healthy isn’t necessarily pricier. Swapping out junk for nutritious options doesn’t always break the bank.Â
However, your location can influence food prices; some items might be costlier in certain areas.
Similarly, there’s a wide range of healthy food options going well into the expensive category, but you can also choose the cheaper options.
3. Carbs means putting on weight
Not all carbs are bad. Eating carbs in moderate quantities does not contribute to weight gain. Ensure that the carbohydrates are without additives like sauces, cream, and butter.Â
You can try eating whole-grain foods like brown rice and potato skins to maximize the fiber intake. Avoid fried food.
4. Starving yourself
You’d think starving yourself should do it, but that isn’t the case. You may be missing out on healthier nutrients, which are essential to your body. Sticking to a sparse eating schedule is hard to keep up and can lead to backsliding.Â
In the same vein, going hungry amps up cravings, setting you up for a feast later on.
5. Food and metabolism
Your body needs its metabolism to function correctly to survive. The problem arises when your metabolism slows down or speeds up. Since metabolism needs energy, the amount of energy every individual needs differs because of physical differences.Â
There are conflicting opinions on whether some foods speed up your metabolism, so caution is advised.Â
6. Slimming pills
Due to potential health hazards, exercise caution when thinking about weight loss pills. Avoid over-the-counter options and always chat with your doctor first. They can recommend safer meds for you.
7. Low fat doesn’t always mean healthier
The term low-fat does not necessarily mean the food item has no fat. It only means it has fats below the allowed quantity to get a low-fat label by the regulatory agency.Â
Research and read the label before purchasing any low-fat or reduced-fat food items. Be wary of the sugar content, as some low-fat items can contain high amounts of sugar.
8. No snacks
Nobody stops you from munching on snacks and junk foods when trying to lose weight. The type of snack determines whether you’re taking in a ton of calories.Â
Generally, avoid crispy, fried, processed foods with high sugar or salt content. Not only can this satisfy your cravings, but you won’t be gaining any weight.Â
9. Drinking water
Water isn’t a magic weight loss drink; it’s merely H2O, and our bodies are already about 60% water. Drinking it fills you up, reducing the urge to snack often.
Keep in mind that staying hydrated is crucial for our well-being. Always keep your water intake up!
10. Skipping meals
Skipping meals hardly helps in reducing weight. Usually, a person who missed a meal is more likely to binge on food the next time they’re presented with a meal. This destroys the purpose of skipping the meal in the first place.Â
Skipping meals can also make you more tired and unable to keep up with your day because you might miss out on essential nutrients. A balanced, nutritious diet is what you require for fast weight loss.Â
Frequently Asked Questions
To tackle a nutrition myth, check reliable sources like government health agencies or consult registered dietitians. Skip DIY diet changes, and don't just take advice from friends or family; it may not be science-backed. Shedding pounds isn't a straight path; multiple variables are in play, like: Avoid the starvation route for quick weight loss; it's packed with health risks: If you're looking for extra help on your weight loss journey without giving up your favorite foods, adding weight loss supplements to your routine can really make a difference. They're the secret sauce to losing weight while still enjoying the foods you love. Starving yourself to diet is a bad idea. It's unhealthy and backfires by slowing your metabolism. You'll burn fewer calories, making weight loss challenging and regain accessible. You risk muscle loss, electrolyte issues, and mental health woes. Carbs don't make you fat; overeating calories does. Yet, beware of refined carbs and sugary drinks; they're calorie-dense but nutrient-poor, causing weight gain easier if overindulged. Losing blood can cause a minor weight drop, but it's no weight-loss strategy. Adults have around 10 pints of blood, roughly 8% of body weight. Donating blood means losing just 1 pint, or about 1% of your weight. No, shedding pounds won't shrink your height. Your stature's set by genetics and your skeleton. Weight loss targets fat, not bone, so your height stays put. No, hunger pains aren't a fat-burning signal; they just mean your stomach's telling your brain it's chow time. Fat burning is a different ball game, happening all over your body.What's the best method of approaching a nutrition myth?
Why is weight loss not linear?
• Water weight: Day-to-day shifts in water levels can make your weight yo-yo.
• Muscle mass: Slimming down might mean losing muscle, which dampens your metabolism.
• Hormones: Things like your menstrual cycle can throw your weight off.
• Stress: It can either pack on the pounds or melt them off.
• Medications: Certain meds can tip the scales one way or another.Should I starve myself to lose weight fast?
• Weight regain: Slows your metabolism, making future weight gain likelier.
• Muscle loss: Weakens you by depleting muscle.
• Electrolyte imbalance: Triggers fatigue and heart issues.
• Mental health could lead to anxiety, depression, or eating disorders.Can you lose weight and still eat what you want?
Is starving a good way to diet?
Do carbs actually make you fat?
Does losing blood make you lose weight?
Do you get short when you lose weight?
Are hunger pains a sign of fat burning?
Final Thought
So now you’re in the loop about the real deal with weight loss. The golden rule? Eat fewer calories and burn more through exercise. This two-pronged approach helps you shed those extra pounds and boosts your overall well-being. Exercise tops it off by getting you fit as a fiddle.
Read next:Â How To Lose 5 Pounds In A Week