Exploding Common Diet Myths with 10 Easy Weight Loss Tips

Our 10 easy weight loss tips will help you address several mistakes people make when they embark on a weight loss plan.

When we begin a weight loss program we have great intentions and are excited about opportunities to reach our goals, but that positive feeling can get lost if we see slow or stalled progress.

Here are mistaken ideas people have around diets and our easy weight loss tips:

1. "Skipping Breakfast Will Help Me Lose Weight Faster."

Actually, the opposite is true. Our bodies need food in the morning to work effectively.  

Research shows that people who eat breakfast are less likely to be overweight than those who don’t. This is because eating breakfast provides you with enough energy to get you through the morning. It can help reduce the urge to overeat later in the day.

Not a breakfast eater? Try some fresh fruit and/or yogurt. Lots of nutrients but few calories and very light on the tummy.


2. "I’m Not Getting Anywhere. No Use Trying."

Weight loss is a journey that, unless you only have 3 pounds to lose, takes time. That's why it is very important to lose weight by eating a healthy diet rather than using a crash diet. A crash diet will do just that - make you crash and go back to your old habits.

Stick to a healthy eating plan. Weight yourself only once every week or two and enjoy the ride. Slow and steady really does win the race.

3. "There’s No Point in Sticking to my Diet. I Had Dessert at Lunch."

Don't be so hard on yourself if you ate something you think you should have avoided. Just hop back on the healthy eating train right away and you will be fine. Don't make the mistake of eating junk for the rest of the day or giving yourself a hard time. Just try to think about what may have triggered your overeating and see if you can avoid it next time.


4. "If I Just Eat the Kids’ Leftovers I’ll Lose Weight Faster."

It is extremely important to eat a full, healthy meal. For one thing, it is more difficult to keep track of your food intake when you eat like this. Plus eating bits and pieces can mean you aren't getting all the nutrients you need. So sit down to a healthy meal you can really savor.  


5. "I’m on Vacation. So is My Diet."

Successful weight loss is really about making a lifestyle change. You need to get into the habit of eating sensibly all the time. While it is important to give yourself a break while on vacation, keep it all in check. It's all about balance.


6. "If I Exercise I Can Eat More."

Exercise is important to maintaining good health. Ideally we should exercise on a regular basis, even if it’s just a 30-minute walk. And exercise does rev up our metabolism. But, eating more simply because we have exercised just eliminates any benefits your body has gained by exercising. Find another way to treat yourself.


7. "I’m Going to Follow the Same Diet My Friend Used."

We are all different and what works for one may not for another. It is most important to find out what works for your body. The absolute best way to ensure success is to follow a sensible eating plan and incorporate an exercise or sport that you enjoy into your schedule.


8.  "I’ll Lose Weight if I Eat Only Low-Fat Processed Foods."

Eating a greater amount of low fat processed foods doesn't work over the long haul. For one thing, foods marked low fat can be heavily processed and have less nutritional value. They are also usually lower fat versions of foods that have are high in calories, such as ice cream or chips.

You’re much better off sticking to the regular versions and eating a smaller portion – this will satisfy your appetite while also helping you get into the habit of being eating smaller portions.


9. "I Can’t Diet When I Attend Business Lunches."

It is possible to eat out often and still lose weight. You just need to know which choices to make. Be careful of fried foods, sauces and alcohol - all high calorie, low nutrient choices. Go with broiled, steamed or grilled meat, chicken or fish.


10. "I Am Dieting Because My Partner Hates My Body."

Embarking on a diet because you want to please others rarely works. A lifestyle change is something that requires dedication and commitment. Eat healthy to lose weight because it is what you want for <b>you</b>. That way, you can be proud of your accomplishments for what they are - the result of taking care of yourself and doing good because you care about you.   

These easy weight loss tips can help you maintain your healthy diet and achieve the lasting success you desire.