Fighting excess weight is not an easy task and requires a comprehensive approach. However, among the popular "life hacks" for quick weight loss, there are many that do more harm than good. Nutritionists explain what the main myths are.
Myth 1: Drink less — lose weight faster
Dehydration can indeed give the illusion of “losing weight,” but only at the expense of water loss. As experts explain, a sufficient level of fluid is necessary for normal metabolism. If there is little water in the body, metabolism slows down, and this, on the contrary, prevents fat loss. In addition, a lack of fluid can cause problems with the heart, blood and kidneys.
Myth 2: “Don’t eat after six”
This advice only works if you go to bed at 9:00 p.m. In fact, it’s important to have dinner no later than 2–3 hours before bedtime. If you starve in the evening, it can cause insomnia or nighttime “raids” on the refrigerator. But if you plan the time of your last meal correctly, your body will be full, and your goal — losing weight — will not suffer.
Myth 3: Teas and dietary supplements for weight loss are safe and effective
Unfortunately, even “natural” drugs can be dangerous. Medicinal plants in large doses can cause side effects, and some teas can stimulate excessive fluid excretion from the body or affect the cardiovascular system. Before taking any supplements, you should consult a doctor.
Myth 4: You need to completely eliminate “everything harmful”
A balanced diet is the basis of healthy weight loss. It is important not to limit yourself to just a few “allowed” foods, but to follow a varied diet with a sufficient amount of calories, proteins, fats and carbohydrates. According to nutritionists, 80% of success depends on nutrition, and only 20% on sports.
Myth 5: The faster you lose weight, the better
You should lose weight gradually. The ideal weight loss is up to 5 kg per month. Sudden weight loss harms the body, worsens the condition of the skin, and can cause hormonal disruptions. In addition, the less excess weight you have, the slower the process of losing body weight will be. Any weight loss should be based on a healthy approach. A sufficient amount of water, regular balanced nutrition, moderate physical activity, and no rush are the basis for a result that will stay with you for a long time. And most importantly, it will not harm your health.
