Demystifying Weight Loss Myths Through My Experiences
There are many nutrition and fitness experts out there that, frankly, when you open a Youtube video or Instagram reels or a blog, ideas might appear contradictory. When I set out on my weight loss journey, I felt dazed at the vastness of the information out there. I’m not equipped enough to state which idea is scientifically right, but I can talk of things that have worked out for me and answers I have found out.
Most importantly, aim to lose weight to become a better version of yourselves and a healthier you. Do not set out because you are ashamed of yourselves or due to body shaming. Self-love is even more important in such a phase when we have to make major changes in our lifestyle and the setbacks we will face in the journey. Love and accept yourselves to stick to your plans and not to get disheartened. Mark the words in mind that the journey will be different for every person, however similar it may appear. The human body is a complex machine with its own efficient systems and functionings. Learn to appreciate a thousand works it does for you to sustain and prosper.
Successful Weight loss is fat loss. Unless your fat stores get depleted, you won’t have a sustained long term healthy weight loss. Fad diets make you lose weight on the scale due to a calorie deficit or water weight loss. So you will regain at a faster pace unless your body fat percentage comes down.
I have listened to experts advocate that you shouldn’t go calorie deficit to lose weight. In my experience, a calorie deficit is indeed needed to lose weight. Unless you take in lesser calories than how much you may spend, how will weight loss happen? Include ample proteins and healthy fats in diet. Otherwise it will lead to energy crashes and cravings which will make it difficult for you to stick to diet plans and may end in cheat meals. Always bear in mind to have a balanced diet include greens and micronutrients. It is easy to lose track of what you eat when you concentrate on weight loss. Numbers on the scale are not the ultimate success, inch loss matter too.
Another thought people have when they attempt to lose weight is that exercising alone can make you lose weight. Weight loss, in my experience, is 80% diet and 20% exercise. So yes, you need to stop grabbing that extra sweet or the addon cheese. Exercise will make you appear more toned, but it isn’t effective in itself as a complete fat loss tool. But exercise and clean eating habits will ensure successful weight loss and maintenance.
Some people state that you need not reduce carbohydrates from your diet to lose weight. Its a mistake to make such a generic statement. First of all, carbs are an essential and much-needed food group in your diet. The majority of foods contain part carbohydrates. However, there are certain types of carbs everyone needs to avoid. Processed food items, sugar, fibreless food, fried foods etc., has to be avoided. Carbs are safer in the closest to the natural state. Complex carbs like sweet potatoes, quinoas, bananas etc., has to be included in the diet. However, it will depend on a person’s body type and state of the body. Many overweight people face Insulin resistance, wherein going low carb may be the easiest for them to lose the stubborn weight and correct the issues with Insulin resistance.
