Four of the Most Popular Diet Myths Revealed

Some common misconceptions in the world of dieting are about the idea that we need to eat only certain food groups to promote weight loss. In fact all this means that we deprive ourselves from many life-important nutrients, vitamins and minerals, which our body needs to function properly.

Strong, lean and fit body is everyone's dream and most people have heard that this can be achieved by strict diets and exercising routines. But the truth is: healthy and well balanced eating plan and regular exercise, with small changes and improvements over time, is what you need to succeed. Here I will point and debunk few popular diet myths when it comes to dieting and losing weight.

Myth 1:

Only Certain Food Groups Are Allowed for Healthy Eating.

This can not be so much further from the truth. Many diets, especially crash diets will suggest cutting out given food groups or to stick to foods only from one food group. The human body is not designed to run on one kind of food, in order to be healthy we need a varied and balanced eating plan. Our body needs an everyday portion of fats, proteins, carbohydrates and some fibre, plenty of water, and fruits and vegetables as a source of vitamins and minerals. The so-called "unhealthy" foods - our body will require even some of those, if only in moderation, because nothing should be cut out completely. We should not forget also that grains, raw nuts and seeds play essential role for maintaining a strong immune system and fighting against illnesses, keeping us healthy.

Myth 2:

Meat Is the Best and Only Source of Proteins.

Not true. Another solid protein source are dairy products, keep in mind though they are high in fat too (so aim at low-fat milk, yogurt and cheese). Some fruits, vegetables, raw nuts, whole grain foods, legumes and oils are also rich in proteins.

In fact meat is high in fat and sodium. Red meats in particular, should be consumed in moderation, because if you overdo it, may cause issues with increasing cholesterol levels. And the quantity of protein it contains, is not as much as originally considered. While nuts, legumes, grains and oils - actually contain more. The suggested and necessary daily protein minimum is about 10 - 15% of the total calorie intake, or 50 - 60 grams of protein a day, so you realize, you don't need to eat only meat to get your daily norm.

Myth 3:

Stay Away From Fat If You Want to Lose Weight.

Dietary fats can be classified mainly into two groups: saturated “bad” fats and unsaturated “good” fats. What is more the human body actually needs some fat to maintain the proper function of the internal organs; it also helps the muscles and joints to work smoothly. As a basic guide stay away from processed foods and oils (refined and hydrogenated). Aim to cold pressed, virgin and extra-virgin oils. Other good nutritious healthy fats sources are fish, avocados and raw nuts.

Myth 4:

The Less Calories You Consume the More Weight You Will Lose.

Cutting out on calories for too long can lead to deprivation of important nutrients, vitamins and minerals - in other words serious health problems. It is advisable for women on average not to consume fewer calories than 1,200 per day and for men not less than 1,800 calories.

If you are willing to lose weight, you need to build a natural healthy balanced eating plan. To achieve that you'll need to start making smarter food choices. For example instead of snacking on rich in fat and sugar foods, you can literally eat plenty of fruits and as much vegetables as you want. By doing so you will not only satisfy your hunger but it will have beneficial effect on your shape and weight too.

The first steps to set you out on a successful weight loss routine, are to target a healthy weight you want to achieve, then make some general research on the recommended daily calorie allowance for that weight, and start making slow and gradual (no crush and burn) changes in terms of diet and fitness.

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