Some New Year’s resolutions aren’t all that new. One of the most commonly set and broken resolution every year is—you guessed it—to lose weight. But if you’re looking to lose that few extra kilos this year, we’re here to help. Here are five weight loss myths you need to know about, so you’ll have an easier time keeping your resolution.
1) Detox
Whether it’s ginger cucumber juice or colon-cleansing, claims that promises to flush toxins out of your body are merely fads that have been disproved by scientists. If there are toxins to be flushed, your body is well equipped to do the job.
2) Carbs make you fat
The popularity of the Atkins diet may have dwindled, but many people still believe that carbohydrates should be avoided. The truth is, carbohydrates are essential to our diet and consuming too few can bring about a whole host of problems, including headaches, dizziness, fatigue, muscle aches and more.
3) Eating fats will make you fat
Sounds logical right? Not quite. Eating a small amount of fats can actually help you feel fuller, and hence eat lesser. Furthermore, your body needs fat for energy, and repair of tissues, amongst other functions.
4) Skipping meals will help you lose weight quicker
False. There’s no shortcut to losing weight. Skipping meals will only cause you to feel hungrier at the next meal, which often leads to binge eating. It is also extremely unhealthy for your heart.
5) Choose diet sodas
Love sodas, but want to lose weight? Diet sodas isn’t the compromise you’re looking for. They may promise zero sugar, but the artificial sweeteners are just as unhealthy. In fact, they tend to trigger food cravings, which leads to more eating. The smart choice is to skip the sodas all together.
References:
- http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2014/dec/05/detox-myth-health-diet-science-ignorance
- http://lifehacker.com/10-health-myths-that-just-wont-die-debunked-by-scienc-1443659706
- http://www.eatingwell.com/nutrition_health/weight_loss_diet_plans/diet_reports_information/3_weight_loss_myths_debunked
- http://www.raderprograms.com/health-concerns/infographic-top-health-myths-fact-or-fad.html