Weight loss has always been a topic that people are interested in, and so much is said about losing weight that it can be hard to sort facts from fiction. Especially in the aspect of the diet. Here are some myths and misconceptions about weight loss.
1. All calories are equal
The calorie is a measurement of energy. All calories have the same energy content. But, that does not mean that all calorie sources have the same effects on your weight. Different foods go through different metabolic pathways and can have vastly different effects on hunger and the hormones that regulate your body weight. For example, a protein calorie is not the same as a fat or carb calorie.
2. Supplements can help you lose weight
The weight loss supplement industry is massive. Various companies claim that their supplements have dramatic effects, but they’re rarely very effective when studied. People will fall for the marketing tactics and want the supplements to help them lose weight, so they become more conscious of what they eat.
3. Obesity is about willpower, not biology
It is actually inaccurate to say that your weight is all about willpower. There are numerous genetic variables that are associated with obesity and also various medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism, PCOS and depression, all are risk that could increase your weight. Your body also has numerous hormones and biological pathways that are supposed to regulate body weight. These tend to be dysfunctional in people with obesity, make it harder to lose weight.
4. Eat less, move more
In order to lose fat, you need to burn more calories than you take in. So, eating less and moving more would cause weight loss is logic.
5. Carbs make you fat
Low-carb diets can aid weight loss. You will lose weight as long as you keep carb intake low and protein intake high. But this does not mean that carbs cause weight gain. Whole foods that are high in carbs are very healthy. While, refined carbs like refined grains and sugar are definitely linked to weight gain.
6. Fat makes you fat
Fat is very calorie-dense and commonplace in junk food. But as long as your calorie intake is within a healthy range, fat does not make you fat. Fat provides around 9 calories per gram, compared with only 4 calories per gram of carbs or protein.
7. Eating breakfast is necessary to lose weight
People who eat breakfast are more likely to have other healthy lifestyle habits. It’s also a myth that breakfast boosts metabolism and that eating multiple small meals makes you burn more calories throughout the day. But, it’s best to eat when you’re hungry and stop when you’re full.