Dieting Myth Busters: 6 of the Most Inaccurate Dieting Tips (#2 Might Surprise You!)

 Whether you are trying to lose weight or improve your overall health, there are a lot of diets out there to choose from. Something to keep in mind is that not every diet is a great choice for every body type, and a plan that offers “instant results” may not be the healthiest choice.  

In fact, some dieting myths might really surprise you and change your future health approach. There are even a few exercises you might be doing incorrectly, causing more harm to your physical health than good.

Here are 10 common dieting myths and what types of exercises you should avoid:

Myth 1: Skipping Breakfast Causes You to Gain Weight

There is a reason why scientists, doctors, and your parents tell you that “breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” Breakfast can kick off a day of healthy eating when portioned correctly.

Many people think that eating an early and large breakfast causes you to eat less throughout the day; meanwhile, others think skipping breakfast will cause you to overeat at the next meal. The bottom line about breakfast is that you need to prioritize a healthy breakfast every day. Breakfast should be the primary meal of your day, followed by lunch, and a lighter dinner. This meal schedule can reduce weight gain and lower the risk of heart disease.

The goal is to select a breakfast that is low in processed sugar and  incorporates proteins to kickstart your day. Try one of these healthy options:

  • Oatmeal With Fresh Berries
  • Plain Yogurt With Fresh Berries and a Sprinkle of Granola
  • Egg White Omelet
  • Whole Grain Waffle Topped With Fresh Fruit
  • Turkey Bacon and Scrambled Egg Whites With Spinach

Myth 2: You Won’t Gain Weight If You Eat “No-Fat” or “Low-Fat” Products

Just because a food is marked as low- or non-fat, doesn’t mean it’s an all-you-can-eat-without-guilt option. This is one of the most common dieting myths people don’t realize.

While these foods might seem like a healthier option than their fattier alternative, they still have added sugar, starch, and salt to compensate for the reduction in fat. Check the nutrition label before purchasing these items, as you might be surprised to find that many of them have just as many (if not more) calories than their regular counterparts.

To learn more about reading food labels, check out this helpful article.

What’s the recommended daily sugar limit? Check out our blog for some healthier sugar alternatives.

Myth 3: Fasting Helps You Lose Weight Quickly

Fasting all day to lose weight is a major dieting myth. Most people will skip meals throughout the day, then cap it off with a huge meal to replace those lost calories. This strategy, compared to those who lose fat by eating fewer calories, will cause you to lose more muscle than fat; not to mention the negative risks it can have on your cardiac health and sleep if you consume large meals close to bedtime.

Stay tuned to our blog for more information on safe, healthy ways to fast, such as cutting out empty calories like sugary drinks and refined grains.

Myth 4: Avoiding All Carbohydrates Will Help You Lose Weight

Carbohydrates come in two different forms. Simple carbs are those found in sugary snacks like cookies and candy. These foods lack minerals, vitamins, and fiber, so cutting back on simple carbs is a great way to eat healthier.

However, complex carbs like beans, fruit, and whole-wheat bread offer a lot of nutrients vital to your health. Cutting back on these types of carbs could cause more harm than good.

Need some 5-minute dinner plans for your family that also offers complex carbohydrates? Here’s a helpful article with recipes to get you started on the right path.

Myth 5: You Have to Set Modest Goals to Be Successful

When setting your health goals, it is important to take into consideration your body’s type and needs as well as your doctor’s recommendations. For some people, setting ambitious goals inspires them to eat healthier and exercise more. For others, these high goals are daunting and can cause them to give up.

What works for one person may not work for you. It’s important to remember that losing weight in a healthy way and improving your overall health is a process and a lifestyle change. Talk with your primary care doctor or nutritionist about what plan will work best for you and be ready to make modifications as needed.

Myth 6: High-Intensity Exercises Will Help You Lose Weight Quicker Than Low-Intensity

Contrary to popular belief, high-intensity exercises will not always help you lose weight faster. These exercises are popular because they allow you to get in an efficient workout in a short period of time, however, there are significant risks involved.

If you don’t balance out this training with low-intensity exercises, you could damage your mental and physical health. Constant high-intensity exercises with no recovery time triggers the stress hormone cortisol which is detrimental to the digestive system and overall health over time. High cortisol can lead to gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.

Low-intensity exercises, on the other hand, are joint-friendly and help you burn calories while also helping your body heal. These exercises cause significantly less stress on your body and are safe for the whole family to try.

Here are a few of our favorite low-intensity exercises:

  • Walking
  • Roller Blading
  • Barre Workouts
  • Swimming
  • Going for a Bike Ride
  • Restorative Yoga or Pilates

For more low-intense exercises that are actually fun, check out our blog for 10 Fun Ways to Stay Active With Your Kids at Home.

Making a Lifestyle Change to Maintain Good Health

Ready to make a healthy lifestyle change but not sure where to start? We’ve developed a Recommended Schedule to Maintain Good Health with hearty meals and family-friendly exercise routines to try. Download your free copy of the schedule below!

Your daily schedule of healthy meals and exercise routine