Dieting is a common practice. Yet still, it remains a very misunderstood one. Lots of people and this includes even people who are dieting themselves, seem to have the wrong idea about what dieting is and should be. This is why the editors have decided to put up this article. It aims to demystify dieting, helping you see the practice for what it really is.
In demystifying dieting, learn about common myths and misconceptions around dieting, and discover practical tips for sustainable weight loss.
1. Dieting is Starving Yourself
Of course not! This is not true. On no planet whatsoever is dieting starving.
Do not think of the practice to be anything close to starving. Consider dieting as a process of ‘limiting.’
What are you limiting when you diet? Calories: the energy stored in your food. Calories are what are responsible for weight gain, and limiting them is surely going to help you lose weight.
Read: 10 Herbs and Veggies You Should Be Eating to Keep Your Body Healthy
2. Dieting is Hard and Almost Impossible
Okay, this is a hard one, but we will try to be honest and not sugarcoat anything.
Is dieting hard? Perhaps. In many ways, it can be. This is especially true if you are just starting out. Is it impossible? No.
A lot of people have found their way around dieting without being hurt in any way.
3. Dieting Could Kill Me
Of course not. In itself, dieting cannot kill anyone. What can kill, however, is depriving yourself of the needed nutrients—or, in some cases, not sticking to a diet plan that has been made for you.
Dieting does not maim to harm you in any possible way. In fact, dieting is sure to help in almost every area of your life. It can help you lose weight and even, by extension, help you deal with anxiety and the other mental health challenges associated with gaining too much weight. {Read: Top 15 Healthy Eating Blogs to Follow}
4. Dieting Can Work Alone
This is somewhat difficult to answer. The answer is yes, and no. Dieting cannot work alone to help you lose weight.
Dieting helps stop additional calorie build-up. But weight is not only lost that way. For weight loss to happen, one must not only stop additional calorie build-up—but one must also cause the body to use up all its calorie stores.
This is where exercise comes in, and exactly why it is advised that people accompany dieting with exercise.
If both are done properly, weight loss can happen in a matter of weeks or months.
5. I have to Diet for the Rest of My Life
I have heard someone say that it is impossible to stop dieting the moment you start.
“Now I have to diet for the rest of my life.” She said.
Well, this is not true. You can stop dieting as soon as you start noticing the chances you had hoped to see.
Whether or not you stop dieting is a choice.
Read: 13 Best Foods to Eat Before Bed: 10 Best Late-Night Snacks
6. Dieting is Expensive
Of course, it is not. You can diet at home with a minimalist diet and still get the results you need.
Summary
Dieting is a healthy practice you have to understand and appreciate.
