When it comes to dieting, there are lots of “urban myths” out there. Here are just a few of them–along with the true facts!
Myth: If you want to lose weight, you need to skip meals.
Fact: If you skip meals during the day, you will most likely make up for the missing calories by snacking or by eating larger portions at your next meal. People who skip breakfast are more likely to weigh more than those who eat a healthy breakfast. The best way to lose weight is to eat small meals throughout the day that include a variety of foods from all food groups.
Myth: If you eat after 7 p.m., you will gain weight.
Fact: Its how many calories you eat during the entire day and how much exercise you do that determines whether you gain or lose weight. It doesn’t matter what time of day you eat! The truth is that your body will store any extra calories as fat. If you want to eat something after dinner, make sure that you think about how many calories you’ve already eaten that day.
Myth: Grapefruit can burn fat and make you lose weight.
Fact: No specific food can burn fat! Certain foods that contain caffeine may speed up your metabolism for a little while, but they will not help you lose weight.
Myth: Low-fat or fat-free on the nutrition label means no calories.
Fact: Low-fat and fat-free products are often lower in calories than the same size portion of the regular product. But, many low-fat and fat-free foods have just as many calories as the regular version of the same food–and sometimes even more calories! Food companies may add extra sugar, flour, or starch thickeners to improve the flavor and texture after the fat is removed.
