5 Big Myths About Dieting

While the awareness about health and fitness is contantly increasing, it has also led to several myths becoming popularly accepted as truth by health fanatics. These often become fads, and following these fads becomes an on and off hobby for many women. This is especially true for the soon-to-be brides, who are constantly worried about being in perfect shape for the wedding. If you are one of those, let us warn you that you are doing more harm than good to your health. Read on to bust some common diet myths.

Myth#1: High calorie foods cause instant weight gain

Unbelievable? Believe it, it is a myth! It is true that high calorie foods definitely lead to weight gain. However, the belief that most women have about piling on kilos by indulging in their favourite food even once, is more of paranoia than anything else. It has been proved that it takes close to 3500 calories to put on around 2 kilos. So, there is no need to panic if you enjoy an ice-cream or a couple of pizza slices once in 15 days. In fact, giving in to your temptations once in a while will make a strict diet and exercise regime less boring.

Myth#2: Drinking water before a meal makes you eat less
This is probably one of the most common and age-old misleading beliefs. The reality is that water does make you feel full for some time, but it is processed quickly and makes you feel hungry very soon. However, foods with high water content take longer to process. So, if you eat a large bowl of cucumbers, oranges, tomatoes or melons before your meal, it will make you feel full for a longer time period. Plus, it will also provide you with essential minerals and water-soluble vitamins.

Myth#3: All calories are the same
If you are following a diet that relies solely on counting calories then chances are that you are going the unhealthy way. You must realise that calories coming from different food sources cannot be the same. Calories can be good or bad depending on the type of carbohydrate they come from. Calories from complex carbohydrate-rich foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains are the healthiest. Cutting down on these would be a mistake. If you decide to reduce calories from your diet, make sure you cut down simple or refined carbohydrates like chips, candy, chocolates, pizzas, white bread and soft drinks.

Myth#4: Avoid eating anything after 9 p.m.
Most diets suggest having an early dinner, which is valid too. The metabolism does slow down in the night. However, the body requires energy to perform the basic functions even in the night. So, even after having your early dinner (around 8 p.m.), in case you do feel hungry, there is no need to punish yourself. You can pick some healthy snacks like a handful of dry fruits, a glass of skimmed milk or an apple. They will satisfy your hunger without adding inches to your waistline.

Myth#5: Eating less helps in weight loss
This is probably the most favourite belief nurtured for years now. Women mistake ‘eating less’ for skipping meals and make the biggest blunder. Believe it or not, eating frequently and at regular intervals in fact boosts your metabolism, thus aiding in weight loss. Skipping meals or starving yourself by eating less might show temporary weight loss, but it will slow down your metabolism and in fact lead to your weight refusing to budge.

Knowing facts, rather than falling prey to fads, will lead to better and manageable weight loss. That is the only secret to a fresher and fitter you.