6 Fat Loss Myths Most People Fall For

Happy Friday my friends!! We’ve all been there…we want to lose weight for a wedding, for the beach, or just because we gained too much over the winter (or last 10 years!). But don’t fall for these common fat loss myths.

Myth #1: Diet pills will help you lose fat.

It’s so tempting! The commercials make compelling claims about the power of diet pills, but don’t fall for it. We all wish there was a “magic pill” to make the weight fall right off, but unfortunately there is no such thing. Diet pills are more likely to damage your health and burn your pocketbook than to slim you down. Now, don’t get diet pills confused with high quality supplements, which I personally believe can help aid your weight loss journey.

Don’t pop a pill—instead burn calories with exercise.

Myth #2: You should starve yourself to lose fat.

Attempting to lose weight by starving yourself is not only ineffective, it’s also dangerous. You need to eat to fuel your body so it can burn calories. (here’s an excellent article on the “starvation mode” myth and “metabolic damage” myth)

Don’t starve yourself—instead eat healthy balanced meals throughout the day.

Myth #3: Lots of crunches will flatten your abs.

We all want our midsection to look toned as we stroll down the beach, but excessive crunches aren’t the answer for tight abs. In order to achieve a lean look you’ll have to focus on burning off the layer of fat that is covering up your abs.

Don’t obsess about crunches—instead focus on fat burning.

Myth #4: Eat packaged diet foods for speedy results.

More often than not these products are packed with refined sugar and other artificial ingredients that your body doesn’t need.

Don’t eat packaged diet foods—instead stick with nutritious whole foods.

Myth #5: You have to avoid carbs to lose fat.

Carbohydrates have been given a bad rap, which is unfortunate because you can (and should) eat carbs while losing weight. The key is to stick with healthy carbs while avoiding processed and refined flours and sugars.

Don’t swear off all carbohydrates—instead stick with wholesome carbs.

Myth #6: Lots and lots of cardio must be done to lose fat.

Cardio alone burns away both fat and muscle.  For a lasting change, you have to integrate strength workouts into your routine. Weight training builds lean muscle mass, which elevates your metabolism and burns more fat, even when you’re not exercising.

Now that you know what not to do in order to look great this summer, it’s time to go over your beach ready game plan.

Here’s what you need to know in 3 simple steps:

DO THIS FIRST: Cut out the junk.

The best way to do this is to start by purging your kitchen. Get rid of sugary, processed and fat-filled foods. Once the junk has been cleared out don’t buy any more of it. Remember that your beach ready abs depend on what you eat – don’t eat junk!

DO THIS SECOND: Focus on whole foods.

Replace the junk food in your life with plenty of the following: cooked and raw vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grains, moderate amounts of seeds and nuts, hormone-free lean meats and organic dairy. Clean eating really is that simple.

DO THIS THIRD: Start an exercise routine.

You’re ready to get into great shape for the summer so find exercises that you enjoy to do and get started. Make sure to add in strength training 2-3 times a week to build lean muscle mass. Get a friend or family member to join you to hold you accountable or hire a personal trainer (like myself – 😉 to help you get started.

Most Importantly: Focus on Healthy Habits every single day!

Get enough water, sleep, movement, fruits & veggies, protein, healthy carbs and fats, etc… If you need help with your healthy habits join our 52 Healthy Habits group on Facebook.

Have you fallen for any of these fat loss myths?

Stay Healthy my Friends!

XO,

Carrie A Groff