The wife and I started a low carb diet a little over a week ago and so I’ve been searching for information regarding the subject matter. Now, if you’re like me, you always trust everything you read on the internet and so researching diet trends really isn’t that much of a necessity. But if you are interested in dispelling some myths about diet and weight loss than read on:
- The old adage, never eat right before going to be or else the food turns to fat, is a total myth.
- Sugar is better for you compared to high fructose corn syrup. Wrong. The body breaks it down both the same way. The key is moderation.
- Caffeine does not dehydrate you nearly as much as people say.
- Low fat diet does not equal weight loss. In fact, fat digestion suppresses ghrelin, the hormone that makes us feel hungry, while simultaneously spurring the release of peptides that make us feel full.
- Power Bars and the like are in fact processed foods. You have been warned.
- Exercising without watching what you eat is not a very effective way to lose weight unless you live at the gym. And if you do live at the gym, you should get out more often, Perhaps go grab a burger?
- Alcohol: At 7 calories per gram, alcohol is what scientists call a “non-trivial” calorie source. I’m just saying.
- Sodas are not the only villans! Juice drinks and “smoothies” can rack up the calories.
On a side note: The average American consumes 600 grams of carbs everyday. If you are looking to lose weight 20-70 grams is recommended. If you are looking to sustain your weight 180-230 grams are recommended.
If you’ve heard other myths presented as facts I’d love to hear about it. Sound off in the comments.
-Ian