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Health

4 Things You Should NEVER Do If You Are Trying To Lose Weight, According to Experts

July 11, 2020 by Hannah Kerns
shefinds | Health
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With so much conflicting information out there when it comes to weight loss, it can be difficult to figure out what methods with actually work for you–as well as what mistakes you should be avoiding. Some popular diet myths might sound convincing, so it’s important to know what the experts have to say about them.

With that in mind, keep reading for the four things you should never do if you’re trying to lose weight, according to experts.

 

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egg and toast

Skip Breakfast

Regularly skipping breakfast in an attempt to lose weight is not a good idea, and it can lead to major health problems down the road.

 

According to TIME, a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that skipping breakfast on a regular basis could lead to chronic inflammation, which is a problem for your metabolism: "The researchers concluded that because chronic inflammation is known to affect insulin sensitivity, skipping breakfast could contribute to 'metabolic impairment,' which could potentially raise the risk for obesity and type 2 diabetes."

protein

Forget Your Protein

Eating enough protein is a crucial part of sustainable weight loss, so you should be making sure to include it in every meal.

 

According to Healthline, "Protein has been shown to help with weight loss in several ways. It can reduce appetite, increase feelings of fullness, decrease calorie intake, increase metabolic rate and protect muscle mass during weight loss."

woman exercising

Stick To Cardio Only Exercises

Many people are under the false impression that cardio is the secret to weight loss. Although incorporating cardio into your workout routine can help you lose weight, lifting is another important exercise component for weight loss.

 

Healthline continues, "Performing resistance training is incredibly important during weight loss. Studies show lifting weights is one of the most effective exercise strategies for gaining muscle and increasing metabolic rate. It also improves overall body composition and boosts belly fat loss."

woman drinking Starbucks

Drink Your Calories

Drinking your calories could be setting you back when it comes to weight loss.

 

Susan Besser, MD, primary care physician with Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland, explained to NBC, "One reason liquid calories sabotage weight loss is all in the name: calories. Persons who use liquids instead of food in a diet often think they are making healthy choices or lower calorie choices. But that isn’t necessarily so."

 

With that in mind, keep an eye on the liquids you're drinking, and re-evaluate any that are not water to see if they could be impeding weight loss.

Author:

Associate Editor

Hannah Kerns pitches and writes compelling stories for SheFinds' readers. When she isn't listening to podcasts or catching up on true crime, she covers the latest in beauty, health, fashion, and celebrity news. To reach Hannah, email hannah@shefinds.com.

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Healthy seeds displayed, contrasting with unhealthy pastries.
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Woman experiencing joint pain, indicating health issues.
Popular fast food options from Dunkin', Chick-fil-A, and Starbucks.
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Assorted bagels with blueberries and butter on a wooden board.
Pouring vitamin D drops into palm for daily health.
Comparing cooking spray and olive oil for healthy cooking.
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Top view of Brazilian food dish with rice, beans, and chicken.
Handful of dietary supplements for optimal nutrition.
Creamy banana nice cream topped with fresh fruit.
Middle-aged woman enjoying a glass of wine at home.
Woman applying sunscreen for sun protection outdoors.
Healthy seeds displayed, contrasting with unhealthy pastries.
Grocery store aisle featuring sugar and artificial sweeteners.
Person enjoying a healthy lunch at a dining table.
Sipping spearmint tea for relaxation and digestion.
Frustrated older woman holding her head in distress.
Woman experiencing chest pain, highlighting health concerns.
Various types of bread displayed on a wooden surface.
Woman holding her head, feeling overwhelmed or stressed.
Woman experiencing joint pain, indicating health issues.
Popular fast food options from Dunkin', Chick-fil-A, and Starbucks.
Woman adding sugar to her aromatic cup of coffee.
Assorted bagels with blueberries and butter on a wooden board.
Pouring vitamin D drops into palm for daily health.
Comparing cooking spray and olive oil for healthy cooking.
Older woman taking supplements with water for wellness.
Top view of Brazilian food dish with rice, beans, and chicken.
Handful of dietary supplements for optimal nutrition.