As a weight loss coach I speak will people regularly about their view and beliefs surrounding food and nutrition. It probably won't come as a surprise to hear there is a great deal of confusion around nutrition. In fact, many people reading this article will have only a scant idea about the different food types and what our body actually needs to keep healthy.

One of the simplest systems I've encountered is this. If the food tastes good, then it has to be 'bad' for you! And then there's its counterpart, "If the food tastes 'bad' then it must be 'good' for you". You may identify with these views, or some closely related version! Nutrition for some has been reduced to a concept of 'good' and 'bad' with little else.

Some common weight loss myths that people believe - which aren't true!

Myth #1: Cutting down on portion size is the best way to lose weight.
Not on its own. If you attempt to lose weight by just eating less, you are likely to gain the weight back. Lasting results will come from changing the types of foods you eat, not just the amounts.

Myth #2: Just cut out fat and you'll lose weight.
This approach to weight loss, popular in the 80s, simply doesn't work for most people. Even if a food is labeled "fat-free," it can still be high in calories from sugar and hidden carbs. Effective weight loss comes from being mindful of your total calorie consumption as well as your fat intake.

Myth #3: Cutting calories causes your body to go into starvation mode and slows weight loss.
This is untrue. Your body's resting metabolic rate can vary by about 15%. Nevertheless, eating too few calories and an inadequate amount of protein can make you lose precious lean muscle mass, which will eventually slow metabolism, for the long term. Ideally, stick to the calorie and protein amounts that are right for your body with the Herbalife™ program.

Myth #4: High-protein diets cause ketosis, which reduces hunger.
Ketosis occurs when fat, instead of carbohydrate, is used as an energy source during a high-protein diet. Ketone bodies are produced, which give your breath a bad "fruity" odor. Ketone bodies do not reduce appetite; but, eating sufficient protein for your body needs can help reduce hunger and support weight loss.

Myth #5: Exercise alone can help you lose weight.
While exercise is an important component of a healthy weight-loss program, it is not a great way to lose weight on its own. Exercising for even an hour at a time burns only a moderate amount of calories. Combining exercise with calorie reduction and a healthy eating plan is the most effective way to lose weight and keep it off.

One of the most healthful and helpful steps you can take to improve your health and that of your family's is to learn about nutrition. The principles are easy to understand and armed with the correct information, it's possible to make an improvement to your health.

© Kim Beardsmore

About the Author
Kim Beardsmore is a weight loss consultant whose business operates across 60 countries. Learn more about losing weight, great nutrition and how to look after your health. Estimate your healthy body weight, free ezine and more at http://weight-loss-health.com.au