How many times have you added “weight loss” to your list of New Year resolutions? If you’re like most people, chances are you’ve done this more often than you can count. Despite feeling the urgency and necessity to get in shape, you might hesitate to start a weight loss program.
Worse still, you might fall prey to the colossal assortment of weight loss myths circulating on the internet. From intense workout routines to unhealthy fad diets – you’ve likely come across various misconceptions associated with weight loss. Then there’s the endless barrage of weight loss challenges floating around on social media.
Falling prey to such myths will act as huge setbacks in your weight loss journey. For instance, you might see images of glamorous Instagram models and influencers promoting a specific weight loss diet. You feel tempted to give it a shot but soon realize it isn’t working for you.
It could take a toll on your confidence and morale. Eventually, you might end up in a downward spiral of guilt, self-pity, and self-hatred. It could exacerbate your body image issues and lead to eating disorders. It’s also possible for you to develop emotional and psychological problems.
That’s why it is crucial to steer clear of the myths associated with weight loss. In this blog, we’ll debunk a few popular weight loss myths and lies that have been perpetuated for generations. Let’s get started.
- Obesity is a Lifestyle Disorder
Of course, modern sedentary jobs have been a huge contributor to the prevalence of obesity. However, you must understand that obesity is a complex disorder that’s caused by a wide array of physiological, hormonal, and genetic factors.
While some people have a slower metabolism, others might be genetically predisposed to weight gain. Also, certain disorders, such as depression, hypothyroidism, and PCOD, can lead to obesity. Therefore, blaming your urban, fast-paced lifestyle for your body weight isn’t the right thing to do.
- It’s All About Willpower
Managing any chronic disease, such as diabetes or hypertension, requires a proper treatment plan. After all, no one asks you to get rid of diabetes by sheer willpower. You need to follow a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet, as well as take proper medication.
Unfortunately, when it comes to obesity, it’s often seen as a sign of a lack of willpower. People with obesity are perceived as mentally weak or not determined enough to be fit. What we end up forgetting is that obesity is, after all, a physiological disorder.
That’s why it is important to understand that losing weight takes more than willpower and conviction. If you’ve been struggling to lose weight despite trying your best to exercise and avoid junk food, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor. They’ll help diagnose any underlying issues that might be causing you to gain weight.
Depending on the root cause, your doctor could also prescribe weight loss medication, such as Phentermine and orlistat. While these pills don’t work like magic, they might facilitate gradual weight loss in severely obese individuals. However, most weight loss pills only work when they’re combined with proper diet and exercise.
- It’s Expensive
Between buying trendy superfoods and paying a personal trainer, the cost of a weight loss program can easily skyrocket. However, when you think about the long-term benefits of staying in shape, this seems like a pretty reasonable investment.
To begin with, staying fit minimizes your chances of developing serious chronic disorders in the future. From expensive surgeries and medication to sky-high hospital bills – think about all the money you can save in the long run by losing a few extra pounds.
Also, studies have found that the healthiest diets cost only $1.5 more per day than unhealthy eating habits. When you start eating healthy, you might have to make a big upfront investment to get new ingredients and produce.
Considering that you’ll be eating most of your meals at home, your grocery bill will burn a small hole in your wallet. But if you simultaneously avoid ordering takeout and fast food, the extra cost can be easily compensated. Better still, you can save even more money once you start cooking your meals.
Likewise, when it comes to weight loss medication, you can find various online offers and discounts, such as a Phentermine coupon on GetDealRX. In most cases, you’ll only have to take the pills for a few weeks or months, which means they aren’t going to be particularly expensive in the long run.
Moreover, if you can’t afford a gym membership or personal trainer, it shouldn’t stop you from working out. You could practice aerobics and yoga exercises at home or try going for a hike on the weekends. Other lifestyle changes, such as walking to your workplace or taking the stairs to reach your apartment, will also make a difference.
There isn’t a universal “best way to lose weight.” You must understand what works best for your body. Make sure you watch out for the aforementioned weight loss myths and consult your doctor/nutritionist/trainer whenever in doubt.
