Some weight loss tips and fitness trends give outlandish claims promising dramatic weight loss in just a few days or weeks. This is partly because of advances in technology and easy access to information, including that which is inaccurate and potentially harmful. To avoid weight loss and fitness disappointments, you need to check your sources of information and take every precaution to differentiate between misconceptions and reality. According to the Readers Digest, here are common misconceptions regarding weight loss and fitness.
Incorrectly believing that having a slow metabolism means you cannot lose significant weight
This is a common misconception about weight loss. Whereas a slow metabolism will make it tougher for you to lose weight, you can still boost your metabolic rate by eating healthy foods and performing regular exercise. One of the most effective methods of training is incorporating resistance and cardiovascular exercises with your regular workout regimen. This workout schedule can help you burn calories more effectively and check the weight gain.
False claims that dietary supplements guarantee quicker weight loss results
Dietary supplements, whether liquid, powder or pills, feature several natural and synthetic ingredients that serve different purposes. In spite of their wide usage, studies show dietary supplements do not guarantee weight loss. In fact, most weight loss supplements will create a false sense of accomplishment and lead to unexpected weight gain.
It is also important to acknowledge that the FDA does not approve or regulate the use of dietary supplements. This means the company selling the products is solely responsible for ensuring safety. Some of the documented side effects of dietary supplements include increase in blood pressure, stroke and even death. Although there are many ways to lose weight, most health and fitness experts vouch for a healthy lifestyle.
Claims that in all cases, high consumption of carbs will make me fat
Carbohydrates provide crucial energy to ensure normal body function. It has been established that consuming a lot of carbs can cause weight gain even though other factors may come into play. Among them is consuming more calories from other food classes. Foods like oatmeal, fruits and whole grains are all rich in carbohydrates, but will hardly cause weight gain. For a balanced meal, carbs should constitute 40-65% of your daily dietary needs.
Mistaken belief that skipping breakfast will help you lose weight
Skipping breakfast has not been proven to aid weight loss. In fact, skipping meals with the intention of having a large meal as justification may actually work against your efforts to lose weight. This is because missing meals can cause body stress, which triggers the desire to eat more. The imbalance can elevate the levels of cholesterol and lead to weight gain. Skipping or deferring meals can also throw the body into a spin by slowing down the rate of metabolism.
The notion that you must undergo cleansing to jump start a diet and rid the body of harmful toxins
Even though this belief is widespread, utilizing cleansing and detoxifying diets does not guarantee long-term weight loss results. Studies show some cleansing diets can cause undesirable health issues such as hunger pangs, dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Remember, the body already has effective ways to detoxify itself using the kidney, liver and even the skin.
Tips to lose weight and stay healthy
You can dispel the myths about weight loss and fitness using time tested, evidence based strategies that promise long term results. The tips cover everything from healthy eating to exercise. According to Healthline, here are some of the most effective ways to lose weight and stay healthy:
• Drink water regularly, especially before meals
• Drink antioxidant rich coffee and green tea to boost metabolism and increase fat burn
• Cut back on added sugar to reduce the risk of obesity
• Take Glucomannan and probiotic supplements for weight loss
• Eat less refined carbs to lose weight
• Avoid counting calories and instead eat healthy
• Lift weights and do aerobic exercises regularly
• Eat more fruits and vegetables
• Control your food portions
• Get sufficient sleep
• Chew your food slowly to consume less calories
• Keep healthy food around you
If you want to learn more about weight loss and eating healthy, you need to find credible resources or get in touch with a nutrition or health expert. Dr. Jan McBarron is an expert in dietary issues and weight loss. Before becoming a doctor, she worked as a nurse. Using her knowledge and experience, Dr. Jan McBarron has assisted many patients with medical and weight issues.
