Many people, especially overweight individuals are trying to lose weight quickly. They badly want to get rid of their unwanted pounds that they end up committing themselves to an unhealthy diet program that simply becomes impossible to follow over a long period of time.
Studies show that losing weight gradually and steadily will be more effective in the long run. It further states that attaining your ideal weight, by maintaining healthy eating habits and regular exercise, is more sustainable compared to any other program.
So to help people understand about the right way of diet, Global News spoke to experts from the Dietitians of Canada and asked them to name nine common mistakes that people make while trying to lose weight.
Avoiding Carbohydrates. Heidi Boyd, a registered dietitian from St. John's, Nfld., said it's a myth that low carbohydrates diets are a healthy way to lose weight. A well-balanced diet is what a person should plan for.
Sticking to wrong food group. Second common mistake that people make is choosing low fat over full fat fare. She said, "Substituting a light or low-fat version of your favourite food may leave you less than satisfied and you may end up eating more." Further adding that some low fat food may have more sugar and calories content than the "higher fat alternative."
Distracted eating. Brooke Bulloch, a Saskatoon-based dietitian said that good nutrition is not just about what we eat but how we eat. Distracted eating like eating in front of TV or at desk will most likely lead to over consumption because we only end up eating more quickly and consuming larger portions.
Consuming juice daily. Lalitha Taylor, an Edmonton-based dietitian said that individuals who want to lose weight should choose eating fruit over sipping bottled fruit juice regularly. Fruits are high in fiber and more beneficial to one's health.
Swearing off. Swearing off an entire food group will most likely result to failure, says Andrea D'Ambrosio, a Toronto-based dietitian. Saying totally no to carbohydrates, to red meat and dairy products because 'I'm on a strict diet', is a mindset that can lead to impulse eating.
Skipping breakfast. Janelle Hatch, a Victoria-based dietitian said one of the misconception is not eating breakfast. She said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, it fuels and energizes your body throughout the day. It is best kept balanced with a healthy amount of fiber and protein.
Relying on weight loss products. Kate Comeau, a registered dietitian out of Halifax says don't be fooled by fake promises, you can get all the necessary nutritional requirement your body needs from eating simply prepared food, that will not be heavy on your pocket It's not necessary nor wise to depend on weight loss pills and other products that promises a solution.
"Remember your diet should be mostly made up of foods with few ingredients and made at home," Berglund advised.
