Updated on Oct 11, 2012, 10:31 IST

Myths About Weight Loss

alt'A little knowledge is a dangerous thing' and when you apply it to your weight loss programme, it might as well backfire on you.

So, don't go about trying to lose weight on the basis of small tidbits that you've gathered from here and there. Check out what the myths are before taking up any weight loss programme.

1) Myth: Skipping meals can led to weight loss

Fact: Studies have shown that people who skip their breakfast & meals tend to be fatter. People who skip meals feel hungrier and they tend to eat more than normally required that in turn leads to weight gain. Instead you should have small meals regularly after every few hours, which would help you control your appetite.

2) Myth: Low fat means no calories

Fact: Low fat or fat-free products have lower calories than the full-fact product. But that doesn’t mean that they have no calories. These foods are processed & may even contain higher calories than the fat free versions. People also tend to over indulge in such foods considering its fat free but that in turn leads to weight gain.

3) Myth: Eating late at night causes weight gain

Fact: Regardless of at what time you eat, gaining weight is dependent on how much you eat and level of your physical activity. No matter at what time you eat, your body would store excess calories as fat. However it is advisable not to eat food just before sleeping as it doesn’t help the body to fully digest the food.

4) Myth: Vegetarian food is healthier

Fact: Studies have shown that vegetarians are healthier & less fat than the non vegetarians as they consume lesser calories. Choosing a vegetarian food plan may be helpful if you go for food with low fat content. But that doesn’t necessarily guarantee that non vegetarians can’t lose weight. They can if they carefully eat whatever they want in appropriate amounts. Furthermore, there are certain essential nutrients that are mostly found in non vegetarian foods.

5) Myth: You can eat as much if you exercise properly

Fact: To lose weight, you need to lose more calories than you consume. You need to monitor your calorie intake even if you are exercising. Just because you are exercising doesn’t mean that you can eat more. Opt for foods with lower calories and eat in smaller proportions.

6) Myth: Avoid weight lifts if trying to lose weight

Fact: Lifting weights & doing strengthening activities can help you to lose weight and not just bulking you up. These activities help you to build muscles, & building up muscles burn fat. Doing these physically strenuous activities would help you to lose weight, only if these activities done intensely with other factors would build muscles.

7) Myth: Avoid nuts as they are fattening

Fact: Nuts are high in fat and calorie content. But consuming them in small amounts can be a part of your weight loss program. Most of the nuts contain healthy fats. They are good source of proteins, dietary fibers & minerals.

8) Myth: Dairy products are fattening

Fact: This low fat cheese, milk or other products have lower amount of fats and calories as compared to non fat free versions. Dairy products have many nutrients your body needs. They offer protein to build muscles and help organs work properly, and calcium to strengthen bones. Most of the dairy products are a rich source of calcium and vitamin D. Hence they should not be avoided while losing weight. (MensXP.com)

Also read: Fast Weight Loss, Top 5 Weight Loss Myths Busted and Low Calorie Alcohol Options.

What's on your mind?

Start a conversation, not a fire. Post with kindness.