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Diet Myths

January 24, 2009

These days everybody has some sort of advice to give when it comes to the question of a proper diet, aside from the fact that most of them do not know what they are talking about. Dieting and eating right has become so central to our lives that we grab any piece of advice that comes along from just about anywhere.

As a result, we have become victims to several diet myths that are prevalent in our society today. If you are one such confused person, then read on to find out about some of the most common myths out there.

Myth: Low-fat food will keep you from getting fat.
Truth: Some low-fat foods are even more calorie rich than their full fat versions.

This is sad but true. People believe that because the food is low in fat, it will not cause any fat to deposit in the body. However, the fact is that these low-fat versions often contain more amounts of added sugars and flour to make up for taste, which leads to the calorie-count increasing. Therefore, do not just opt for the low-fat version, compare nutritional values properly and then make a decision.

Myth: Avoid carbs and lose weight.
Truth: Avoid carbs and lose health.

Several fad diets have advocated this theory that by avoiding carbohydrates, weight loss is achieved. This is true in a way. However, when you have a diet that includes nothing but proteins and fats, you put yourself at risk to heart attacks. Fruits and vegetables that are a source of dietary fibre besides carbohydrates are put out, which will lead to constipation. Therefore, keep away from fad diets and have a balanced diet.

Myth: Skip meals and lose weight
Truth: Skip meals and store fat

The body has its own emergency mechanisms. When you starve it for long, it will react in this way. The next time you eat, it will store all the energy in the form of fat for another long period of starvation. Therefore, if you skip meals, all you are doing is adding fat to your body. Instead, have 5-6 small meals throughout the day.

Myth: Eating after 7 pm will increase weight.
Truth: Calories cannot tell time.

If you eat in the evening, it does not mean it will be stored as fat. The truth is that you should not eat just before going to bed because while sleeping, you will not be able to burn as many calories as when you are awake.

Myth: All cholesterol is bad.
Truth: Only the low density lipoprotein (LDL) is bad

In fact, there is good cholesterol, without which our bodies will not be able to create new cells or make new supplies of crucial hormones. Unsaturated fats like nuts, seeds and vegetable oils are rich sources of the good cholesterol (HDL).

Myth: Cut calories, cut weight.
Truth: Cut calories, cut health

Again, cutting calories will cause you to lose weight but in an unhealthy way. Healthy weight-loss requires time and it cannot happen overnight.

Myth: Fat is bad.
Truth: Some fats are good.

Just like cholesterol, some fats are good also. You can find the good fats in olive oil, flaxseed oil, trout, salmon and avocado.

Myth: Exercise and eat what you like.
Truth: Heavy overeating will show up.

Exercising does burn calories. However, if you end up eating more than you burn then you will end up with a beer belly. In addition to weight loss, you also have to look after your health. However, eating lot of unhealthy food will cause you health problems.


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