HEALTH

Weight loss can be tough, especially when you’re falling into the trap of  loss myths. The most important thing to do when you’re trying to lose weight (and you’ve already talked to your doc about it—this is important!) is to find out the truth, and not give into popular trends. We’ve busted some common myths about losing weight and working out. Check ‘em out. 

Myth: Skipping a meal is a good way to lose weight

The truth: You would think that skipping a meal would cause you to lose weight because you are eating fewer calories, but that’s not the case. When you skip a meal, it slows your body’s metabolism. Instead of using your fat and carbs for energy, your body will turn to muscle, and you’re more likely to just eat more at your next meal to make up for the one you skipped.

Myth: Low-fat and fat-free foods are lower in calories and are better than the full fat versions

The truth: Low-fat and fat-free foods are not necessary fewer calories than full fat versions of foods. A lot of times they are the same in calories, or can even be more. These foods will add carbs and sugars to their foods to make up for the fat. If you want to lose weight, you need to check the calories along with the fat content. Not just one or the other.

Myth: If you want to lose weight, you should focus mainly on cardio

The truth: While your body does need cardio to burn calories, you also need to try some weight training in order to turn your fat into muscle. If you are constantly doing the same workout, your body will eventually become immune to the workout and your weight loss will hit a standstill. Instead try a variety of exercises in your workouts.

Myth: You shouldn’t snack between meals

The truth: Most people think that snacking is a bad thing because of the types of snacks that most people go for. And yes, when you dive into a bag of potato chips snacking is definitely on the track to not losing weight. But when you eat healthy snacks, like fruits or vegetables, it can keep you from overeating at your next meal.

Myth: Carbs are terrible for you

The truth: Carbs are your body’s main source of energy, so cutting them out completely is a big no-no. You just have to watch out for simple carbs, like sugar and high fructose corn syrup. Because these are the carbs that most people eat, when they eliminate them from their diet, they see results. Instead, try sticking to fruits and other healthy carbs, like fiber, to keep your fuel source pumping.

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