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When it comes to myths and mysteries that surround foods, there is plenty of advice going around and we’re sure you might have heard a plenty of them. And as far as weight loss is concerned, everybody ranging from family and friends to the drivers and maids everyone seems to know what is good or bad, and how to achieve weight loss.
Well, it’s the hard truth that there is no magical formula nor is there a one-formula-fits-all kind of answer when it comes to weight loss. Many expert nutritionists are asked, “Will I lose weight by drinking green tea?”, or, “Will eating nuts help me lose weight?” And then there are questions related to the “time” of eating certain foods. “Can fruits be eaten after 6 pm?” and the list goes on.
To ease your pain, here are some common myths and well, the facts too so that you can make an informed decision. Read on to find out what are they!
Myth – Avoid dairy products when you are trying to lose weight.
Fact – Lot of people avoid taking dairy products when they want to lose weight. The reason for avoiding them is that dairy products are rich in fat. But we generally miss the fact that dairy foods are also a rich source of calcium, protein and other nutrients. To cut down on fat, try substituting with low fat or nonfat milk and milk products.
Myth – Nuts are fattening.
Fact – Though nuts are rich in calories and fat, they are rich in ‘monounsaturated’ fats. The good fat, remember? Nuts are a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. So, they are part of a healthy diet. A handful of unsalted mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, peanuts) can be a healthy snack. Remember to have a small amount and try not to go overboard.
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Myth – Skip meals to lose weight.
Fact – Think you can just bunk your meal and shed those pounds? Well, sadly that ain’t true! Skipping meals makes you gain weight instead of losing weight! And no we are not kidding. As you are hungry for a long time, there is a tendency that you may binge on food more than often which leads to weight gain. Also staying hungry for long can increase your food cravings for unhealthy and junk food. Try some of the appetite curbing foods instead.
Myth – Potatoes are fattening.
Fact – Seriously? How many times have we heard this? Millions, we bet! Potatoes, by themselves, are not fattening. When potatoes are consumed in large quantities on a regular basis, it may lead to weight gain. The form in which they are cooked matters the most. The best forms in which they are cooked are baked, steamed, roasted, mashed or boiled. Butter, cheese or sour cream added to a potato makes it fattening. Oh and yes, deep frying them too is dangerous for your waistline!
Myth – Fad diets or crash diets work.
Fact – Close your mouth! Actually, they don’t. Fad or crash diets may help you in losing weight temporarily. But such weight loss programs do not work for a long time and you will most probably regain the weight which you have lost. A healthy balanced diet and regular exercise is the right key to weight loss.
Myth – You just need to eat right to lose weight!
Fact – Really? But we’ve been told eating right is the best way to lose weight! Yes it is. But hey, the portion size matters. You can’t just eat 10 plates of idli and say, “But it’s healthy!”. Make your portion size count. It’s play a very important role. And this is precisely why we are asked to calculate the calories we take in. And of course it goes without saying that exercise and eating right have to go hand in hand. Including exercise in your daily routine makes your weight loss goal achievable. You can continue to eat your favorite foods but in limited portions. And of course burn off the excess calories by exercising.
Myth – I can snack on anything as long as it is baked.
Fact – Ah? No! Remember portion size, calories? There is a tendency to binge on baked snacks, believing them to be very “healthy”. Baked snacks can be unhealthy and loaded with harmful fats and additives and are not always low on calories. The kind of baked foods chosen also matter. While baked bhakarwadis or chaklis have high levels of sodium and harmful fats, choosing baked fish instead of fried fish or baked nuts instead of fried nuts make a healthier choice as you are avoiding the excess oils.
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Myth – Fruits are high in sugar, and should not be eaten after 6 pm.
Fact – Fruits are rich sources of vitamins (especially Vitamin C and Vitamin A), besides being powerhouses of disease fighting antioxidants, soluble and insoluble fiber and many key minerals. The whole package makes them very nutrient rich. As far as sugars are concerned, one medium fruit would contain less sugar and calories than in 2 slices of white or brown bread (which is empty calories, and fat rich by the way, and more dangerous). There is no timing restrictions for fruits, and they are digested and metabolized in much the same way throughout the day. The only thing to be mindful of is to not eat a fruit along with coffee, tea or soft drink since the caffeine in these tend to hinder in nutrient absorption from fruits.
Hope these myths and facts help you to get a clearer picture. If you are looking at a customized, balanced diet plan for a healthy and safe way of losing weight, you should consult a qualified nutrition and diet expert. Till then, stay healthy, stay happy and don’t forget to like and share this with your friends too! Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.
