Myths and Facts about Dieting

Some myths that need to be busted are that skipping meals will help you lose weight; that certain foods have the power to burn fat; and that you won’t lose weight if Dieting myths discourage a healthy approach to dieting, causing you to adopt unhealthy dietary practices.

Missing meals can slow down your metabolism and leave you prone to overeating later in the day. Instead, eat three healthy meals every day and keep calories above board and regular. Thirdly, we are told that all fats are bad for us, but the opposite is in fact true. There are healthy good fats, such as the ones found in avocados, nuts, olive oils, and other healthy foods. Good fats can help you lose weight, because they’re very filling and satisfying.

The very suggestive claim that grapefruit ‘burns fat’ or celery has ‘negative calories’ promotes the idea that foods can have powerful, almost magical effects, when the truth is that these foods, while low in calories and useful as part of a healthy diet, are not fat-burners. Cutting out entire food groups such as carbohydrates is ultimately just as unsatisfying, leading to nutrient deficiencies and unsustainable calorie restrictions.

Knowing the facts behind these myths will help you make better decisions about your eating. Always aim for a balanced, varied diet including all food groups in moderation, and one that maintains your weight in the long term.