Is weight loss is on your list of New Year’s resolutions? Don’t buy into any of the following weight loss myths if you want to get to your goal! Here are some of the common weight loss lies people tell themselves:
I’ve got bad genes
This excuse has been scientifically proved wrong. Experts now say that exercise can burn off your muffin top and extra tummy flab, even if your genes make you prone to plumpness. Research shows that even people with highest risk of obesity from their genes can lose weight and improve their health with daily exercise.
I’ve tried everything
Is this really true? If you’re honest with yourself, it’s more likely that you didn’t persist long enough, or sneaked off to have a donut too many times. Weight-loss is a slow process. It needs to be. Losing weight sustainably and remaining at a healthy weight is a lifelong attitude shift.
Weight loss surgery is a quick fix for weight problems
The idea that weight loss surgery is an easy option is completely wrong. In fact, the opposite is true.
It takes a huge amount of work to maintain the results of weight-loss surgery. Your stomach might be smaller, but habits have to change too. Unhealthy relationships with food often stem from emotional issues – underlying problems need to be addressed for changes to stick.
Surgery isn’t risk free either! Common side effects include diarrhoea, excessive sweating, increased gas or incontinence. If bariatric surgery goes wrong, internal injuries or persistent pain can result. In fact, recent research by a specialist team medical solicitors showed that 38% of medical negligence claims are due to internal injury or internal pain. You don’t want to undertake surgery that could result in a law suit unless you absolutely have to.
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I’ve done the research. I understand the risks of a surgery
In fact, no one can fully understand unknown risks. The science of surgery is developing all the time and today’s theories and studiesmay result in tomorrow’s problems.
There are also long term risks to consider. Recent research from the College of Medicine at National Taiwan University in Taipei revealed that weight loss surgery may weaken bones, increasing the risk of breaks. This happens because bariatric surgery patients loose nutrients after the procedure, particularly Vitamin D and calcium, both of which are related to the development of osteoporosis.
Develop a sustainable weight loss plan
Doctors recommend that you avoid buying into myths or quick-fix solutions. Instead:
- Choose a diet which is not only safe but also realistic and sustainable for the long term.
- Tap into the online weight-loss community for support and inspiration. There are some great blogs and the internet is full of new ideas for weight loss and healthy eating.
- Give yourself positive messages, praise your efforts and be gentle on yourself if you slip back.
- Work exercise into your daily life and find ways to be active that you enjoy.