The Myths and Truths of Fad Diets

The Myth: Don't Eat Carbs
The Truth:  Our bodies need carbohydrates.  If you eliminate this nutrient from your diet completely, you could suffer a reduction of the hormones that control fat loss.  This reduction will make it harder to have the lean body you desire.  Good Rule to Follow:  Allow yourself more carbs on the days you are active and fewer on the days you're not.  Also, make sure the bulk of your carbs are obtained from whole foods such as fruits and vegetables.

The Myth: You Must Not Eat at Night
The Truth:  This is a very restrictive way to live and is not linked to any science-backed rules of weight loss.  The only way you will get fat by eating in the evening is by overeating.  If you know how many calories you should be consuming each day, you can consume those calories at whatever time of the day works for your body.

The Myth:  Fasting
The Truth:  Researchers at the University of Utah discovered that people who fasted one day each month were 40%  less apt to develop clogged arteries.  There are many different ways to fast.  An important thing to remember is to never feel that you have to eat if you’re not hungry.  Short daily fasts (for 12 to 16 hours) or a once-a-week daily fast can have health benefits.  It can also help you to learn the difference between boredom or thirst from true hunger.

The Myth:  Supplements for Weight Loss
The Truth:  You should build a foundation of healthy eating and exercise.  However, there are some supplements that can be beneficial in filling any nutritional deficiencies and help your body perform in a more efficient manner.  Using a supplement of 2,000 to 3,000 IU of Vitamin D3 is a wise investment  that will benefit your overall health and weight-loss goals.