There is so much conflicting information in the world about dieting and weight loss, it is extremely easy to get confused. In an effort to clear up some of the confusion, we have chosen what we found to be the most common diet “facts”, and address whether they are true, in some cases half-true, or just total fiction.
1. Eating before bed causes weight gain -
False – What time of day you eat does not necessarily matter. Problems arise when you starve yourself all day and pig out at night on cookies and ice cream. You should eat when you’re hungry and try to plan your last meal to be at least 2-3 hours before bed.
2. Working Out can cause you to Gain Weight
Half-True – The fact is that most of us seriously overestimate how many calories our bodies burn during exercise. People often eat higher calorie foods after exercising and use their workout as an excuse to pig out. There are many tools available online that help estimate how many calories you really are burning. For example, programs like Nutrisystem or Jenny Craig offer tips and advice on exercising and how many calories you need for your gender, weight, height and goals. Take advantage of those types of tools to ensure you keep your calorie intake in-check.
3. Eating Slowly Helps You Lose Weight Faster
True! Your brain takes approximately 20 minutes to realize your body is full. If you scarf down a large portion of food in less than 20 minutes, which is very easy to do, you will most likely end up eating far more than your body needs. Slow down and enjoy your food. You will quickly realize that less food than you think will satisfy you.
4. Carbs Cause Weight Gain
False – However, it is important to eat the right kind of carbs. Your bodyand most importantly your brain need complex carbohydrates to fuel your body and to function properly. Carbs are typically calorie-dense, but simply keep
portions under control and stick with whole grains.
5. One of the Best Ways to Lose Weight is to Become a Vegetarian
So False! Some of the most fattening foods like pizza, ice cream, cake, and candy contain no meat but they can certainly lead to weight gain. Some meat is good for you, especially fish and lean chicken, and they keep you feeling
full longer.
6. Salads Are the Healthiest Options When Dining Out
False – This is probably one of the most widely misunderstood diet myths. The truth is many restaurant salads can be some of the highest-calorie andfattening dishes on the entire menu! This is because the good-for-you veggies are often drowning in fattening dressings, cheese and croutons. If you prefer salads, always ask for the dressing on the side and skip the cheese.
7. When trying to Lose Weight it’s a Good Idea to Avoid Dairy products.
False – Dairy is a great option when you are dieting, because it is full of delicious and nutritious proteins that keep you feeling full. Just avoid full-fat versions and go with the light or fat-free cheeses and milk.
8. Drinking tons of Water Everyday Will Flush the Fat Out of You
Not exactly, but there is some truth here; drinking water will help you lose weight when you use it to replace sugary drinks. It also a great idea to drink a glass of water before a meal, especially if you are really hungry
because it will help you avoid overeating.
9. Drinking Tea Can Help You Lose Weight
True – Drinking certain types of tea such as green tea help raise your metabolism which increases caloric burn. Avoid the sweetened versions though which are loaded with sugar.
10. To Lose Weight and Keep It Off You Must Cut Out All The “Bad-For-You-Foods” You Crave
False – Completely denying yourself of the things you crave can actually hinder weight loss efforts by causing you to eventually give in to the cravings and give up altogether. Keep everything in moderation; if it’s your birthday have a few bites of cake! It won’t ruin your diet and won’t feel like you’re depriving yourself.
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I surprised to see some of my false impressions about diet. This can be called as an eye opener for me.