Misconceptions Abound About Weight Loss
Misconceptions Abound About Weight Loss - A number of
misconceptions persist about weight loss.
These are quite serious, because they could affect not only an
individual’s weight, but also his or her general health as well. The more you know about the misconceptions
about weight loss, the more likely it is that you will end up following a
suitable weight reduction plan.
Misconceptions Abound About Weight Loss
One popular
misconception is that any product that has been labeled “natural” is safe. In fact, you should be aware of the fact that
these products often do not undergo vigorous scientific tests. For instance, ephedra, which has been
included in some weight loss products has been banned by federal authorities
because it has been determined to be unhealthy. Even those products that do not contain
ephedra can be dangerous because they have components that are like
ephedra. As a result, you should consult
your doctor before using herbal weight loss products. Your physician is in the best position to
know whether a weight loss pill or other product is appropriate in your case.
Another
misconception is that you can still lose weight, even if you eat whatever you
choose. Actually, you need to be careful
about how many calories you consume and increase your exercise in order to
ensure that you burn more fat than you take in.
Also, it is important that you limit portions in order to ensure that
you do not add extra weight. If you
select low-calorie foods and you eat smaller portions, while enhancing your
physical activity, you should be able to lose weight. However,
you may still be able to eat some of the food you like best—provided you eat it
in moderation or, if high in calories, only sparingly.
Yet another
misconception is that, because a food item is labeled low-fat, it has no
calories to speak of. While low-fat
foods may indeed be low-cal, some processed low-fat food products have just as
many calories as the high-fat types. In
fact, they may be loaded in sugar or flour, increasing the total calorie
count. As a result, it is important
for you to check the nutrition labels on food packages in order to determine
the exact amount of calories per serving.
It is also imperative that you find out what constitutes a serving size
so that you will not be tempted to overeat.
Some
individuals believe that fast food is inherently bad and cannot be eaten while
following a diet program. However, if
you are knowledgeable, you can actually eat at fast food restaurants and still
lose weight. It’s best, for instance,
if you do not indulge in supersize combo meals.
You might, however, consider splitting a combo with your spouse or
friend. Avoid soft drinks and drink
water instead. Consider eating a salad
or a grilled chicken breast sandwich.
Keep the condiments—such as mayonnaise and salad dressings—to a
minimum. Ask the restaurant not to put
bacon or cheese on your sandwich, and avoid eating French fries or fried
chicken. If you go to a Mexican
restaurant, try a taco that is made with salsa rather than cheese or sauce. Following these simple recommendations can
make your visit to a fast food outlet worthwhile—and non-fattening.
Some people
operate under the misconception that dining after 8 p.m. always leads to weight
gain. No doubt it is possible, but what
matters most is how many calories you consume and how much fat you burn
off. While it is a good idea to avoid
snacking in front of the television, you might be able to have a nightly snack,
if you haven’t consumed that much high-calorie
food during the course of the day.
Other
individuals believe that lifting weights is harmful because it will cause you
to add weight to your frame. In
actuality, weightlifting can enable you to lose weight. This is because lifting weights assists you
in building muscle, which burns more calories than fat. Engaging in strength training twice or three
times a week can be an effective part of your overall weight loss program.
Obviously,
misconceptions about dieting are plentiful.
That is why it is so critically important that you consult a registered
dietician or other health professional before beginning any major weight loss
program.