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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.
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."
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."
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."
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.
