Taking steps to stay informed about your health can be highly empowering, and can help you make the best decisions in regards to nutrition, fitness, and weight loss. Unfortunately, when it comes to obesity, many Americans have false impressions about the steps they should take to either lose weight, or to avoid obesity and weight gain.
A team from the University of Alabama at Birmingham recently published an article in the New England Journal of Medicine that compiled a list of common, yet scientifically unproven beliefs about obesity. Take a look at the below myths about obesity so you can make the necessary lifestyle changes to overcome your presumptions and become healthier!
Myth #1: Reducing your calorie intake will result in major, long-term weight loss
Many Americans believe that reducing overall calorie intake will result in major, long-term weight loss, even without exercising. However, research shows that restricting calorie intake will only be effective short-term, especially if you just focus on calories consumed instead of the quality of food you’re eating. Keep in mind that consuming 3,500 calories per day of dessert will have a different effect on your body than 3,500 calories per day of fruits and vegetables. Instead of focusing strictly on calories, focus on exercising regularly and consuming healthier foods.
