Weight loss is a very complicated matter, because there is never a single clear way to achieve it, and everybody has different opinions on the matter. With dieting becoming such a popular fad, a lot of people are scampering to get the best information they can so they can be successful at dieting. However, not everything you see and hear is true - some are just hyped up statements to sell and idea or product. Below are some of the most famous myths in weight loss; you might be surprised to find that you're actually following these yourself!
• Snacks are bad for you - Most people say that snacking between meals can ruin your appetite and make you take in more calories than you should. Although this is partly true, snacking is never a no-no. For some people, snacks might actually help them with their diet because it alleviates their hunger. You tend to eat more when your stomach is grumbling, so munching on something every now and then to keep your cravings at bay can be good. Not all snacks are bad; if you're feeling hungry an hour or so before lunch, munch on an apple or a carrot. Just remember, the rules with snacks are the same as meals - eat only until you don't feel hungry anymore, not when you are full. Not knowing the mistake between the two is the biggest dieting mistake people make, not snacking.
• Fast food can ruin a diet - It is a fact that fast food is unhealthy. They are loaded with calories, cholesterol and salt, and don't have nearly as much nutrition as you need. However, zero fast food during a weight loss program can also be depressing. Like with most things, fast food can be an option, even for people who are dieting, as long as it's put in moderation. It can even be a motivator for some. For example, you can treat yourself to a meal at your favorite fast food when you reach a certain weight loss goal. Depriving yourself of fast food, especially if you love to eat out, can make you feel stressed and depressed. Depression is a potent enemy for dieters and most people actually quit because they feel like they're missing out on so much. Just get the most basic meals, without the extra large fries or extra toppings. So indulge yourself and take a break by eating out. It's okay as long as you don't make a habit of it.
• Carbohydrates are evil - People tend to forget that there are two types of carbohydrates - good ones and bad ones. They make the mistake of taking out carbohydrates from their diet altogether. Carbs are important because they give your body fuel that you use for energy. Without carbs, you'll feel lethargic and sleepy all day. Good carbs are low-calorie and give you enough energy you need. It can be found in whole grains, vegetables and fruits. Stay away from bad carbs, which have a high sugar content.
• Some foods help you burn calories - No matter what you eat, all food has a calorie content. There is no such food in the world that has a negative calorie content, so there will never be any truth to a calorie-burning food. Some foods are low-calorie and can help you in your weight loss goals, but the idea of foods that have no calories, or even foods that burn calories is simply ridiculous.
There is no doubt that some people are guilty of following the myths mentioned above. So before you adapt a certain easy weight loss principle and live by it, do your homework, ask around and think twice. The only thing worst than giving up on a good, but difficult weight loss program is following a weight loss principle that is wrong and inaccurate in the first place.
