Let’s Expose Some Popular Diet Myths

Are those extra inches round your waist leaving you sleepless?
Has your last diet plan failed to solve your eternal problem -
excess weight? Maybe you are not doing it right or expect
results too fast.

Losing weight can be difficult at times because of
misconceptions about food and how the metabolism really works.
Many foods that we think are low in calorie are really not. We
eat what we think is right, unaware of the hidden fat and
calories. Losing weight can seem impossible if you’re not aware
of hidden fat.

In this brief article I am going to show you exactly what the
truth really is, exposing some popular myths about losing weight
and in the process advises on the best diet.

NO QUICK FORMULA TO WEIGHT LOSS

If you think that by cutting down on food and with a six-week
deadline, you can lose weight, you are completely mistaken. This
practice is guaranteed to bring your metabolism to a screeching
halt! Although, you may lose weight but it’s all bound to
return. You may feel nice after having lost some amount but
eventually when it catches up, there are chances of your going
into a major depression. Also, repeated weight cycling – losing
and gaining frequently – is not advisable at all.

The only proven way to lose weight and keep it off is by making
permanent lifestyle changes. You must eat healthier, watch
portion sizes and be active. Stick mainly to lean proteins,
whole grains, nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables. Lots of water
will also keep your appetite in check and prevent overeating.

EXERCISE NEEDN’T MAKE YOU HUNGRY

Once you get used to exercising, you will stop craving for more
food. So you needn’t cut down on exercising. What’s important is
you should rehydrate yourself after exercise. Have lime water
but without sugar. Before and after an exercise, have a fruit -
it’ll help you rebound back.

SKIPPING IMPORTANT VITAMINS AND MINERALS IS NO GOOD

All this talks about not having carbohydrates with grains, or
pulses with something else is hogwash. When you are having a
meal, what matters is the total calorie count. Of course, the
total calorie count will vary according to a person’s needs but
the ideal is 800-1200 calories per day. The best way to get this
is to have two fruits, two servings (half a cup) of pulses,
plenty of vegetables (can be cooked or boiled) during the day.
The rest of the food can be adjusted according to the reqirement
of calories. Sugar should be strictly avoided.

Daily products can be used but it should be according to one’s
need. Don’t forget to include soyabean atleast in one meal
during the day. Avoid processed food, instead go for whole food.

OLIVE OIL HAS NO CALORIES

That’s because it has the same amount of calories as any other
refined oil. But it’s definitely very healthy. So cook your food
in olive oil but don’t use more than 1-2 teaspoon. It has been
demonstrated that the addition of olive oil to a diet that is
not changed in any other way has a lowering effect on blood
pressure.

LEMON JUICE AND HOT WATER – DON”T FIGHT THE BULGE

In fact, the honey that you use in it to sweeten it is
fattening. All this concoction does is give you that extra
vitamin C.

CARRY ON WITH SALT

Many people believe that by avoiding salt they can cut down on
their calories. Apart from reducing water content in the body
(good for people suffering from water retention), a no salt diet
doesn’t bring down your calories.

Remember diet has to be a way of life, and not a one-time
affair. So go ahead and get the right diet.

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