There are so many myths out there regarding health and fitness.
Below are a just a few of them that many of you may have read about. Hopefully the TRUTH will set you free!
Myth: Skipping meals helps you lose weight.
TRUTH: People who skip meals (especially breakfast) and eat fewer times during the day tend to be heavier than people who eat four or five times a day. There are several reasons for this. One, you slow down your metabolism, the speed that your body is running. Two, you tend to eat more at other meals to compensate for feeling so hungry. Eating small meals throughout the day helps people control their appetites better and keep their fuel (calories) burning. When you skip meals you are working against your body trying to lose weight!
Myth: Eating after 8 p.m. causes you to gain weight.
TRUTH: It does not matter what time of day you eat. It is what and how much you eat as well as how much physical activity you do during the day that determines whether you gain, lose, or maintain weight. No matter when you eat, if you do not use all the calories that you have consumed, your body will store the extra calories as fat. Keep in mind, though, that it is a good idea to consume the bulk of your calories during the time of day that you are most active, and that is different for everyone!
Myth: As long as you watch your food intake, you do not need to exercise.
TRUTH: If you are trying to maintain or even lose weight, exercise can help you increase your lean tissue (muscle) while decreasing your fat stores. This will help increase your metabolism which will help you burn calories at a quicker rate. However, the benefit of regular physical activity goes well beyond maintaining a healthy weight.
Exercise, especially cardiovascular forms, can help you strengthen your lungs and heart which can prevent or prolong heart disease. Physical activity can also improve your cholesterol level by increasing your good cholesterol. Regular exercise can also be a stress reliever. Besides all of the physical benefits, since physical activity increases oxygen flow throughout the body, it can improve brain function as well. Therefore, you can say that exercise is beneficial for your mind, body, and soul!
Myth: You need to exercise for at least 45 minutes at a time to get the full benefit.
TRUTH: Physical activity does not need to be vigorous to provide some benefit. Scientific evidence shows that physical activity done at a moderate-intensity level can produce health benefits. Adults should engage in moderate-intensity physical activities for at least 30 minutes on five or more days of the week. The other good news is that research has shown that the activity does not need to be done all at one time. The recommended 30 minutes can be split into two 15-minute intervals and provide you with the same benefits.
If people have been sedentary, they can improve their health and well-being with regular, moderate levels of activity each day. Regular physical activity can also be fun. Join a sport or take a walk with a friend. As long as you are moving the majority of your body parts/muscles, you are on the right track!