In todays world of health and fitness it may seem like everyone is an expert. All you have to do is log on to your Facebook or Instagram and you are probably flooded with advertisements for “building your dream body”, or “the best weight-loss coach ever”. So where do you start? Who to trust?
Everyone’s body reacts differently. To think that because one diet worked for your friend or training partner does not necessarily mean that it will work for you. Below are 3 common fallacy’s that many people will fall prey too. Avoid these mistakes and enjoy better results!
- Cookie-Cutter Diets: If you spend a decent amount of time in the gym you probably know of at least one person who is a self-proclaimed expert thinking that they have found the “secret” to that six pack you have been searching for. If it sounds too good to be true; it likely is! Much of nutrition (coach or not) is trial and error. Avoid a “one size fits all” diet. When searching for a coach look for someone who is willing to listen, assess your indidivdual needs, and take your lifestyle in to consideration. Avoid advice from anyone who proclaims “my diet plan will work for everyone.” You will likely find that you will save yourself a lot of time, and money.
- The Only Way to Lose Weight is to Eliminate Fats and Carbs from Your Diet: This is surprisingly common misconception that many people have. Often times I find that people are actually eating too little. It is true that many people are carbohydrate sensitive, but to think that you can never eat carbs is absurd. There is a time and place for all macros. When constructing an eating plan that works for you, I always recommend starting on the higher end of your recommended calories. Figure out your protein and fat intake first; carbs should fill in the remainder of calories. Keep in mind that healthy fats are essential for life. Fat’s should not be dropped below 20% of your daily caloric intake for any extended amount of time. This could actually slow-down your metabolism stall progress!
- Don’t ever eat after 6pm: Many people will preach only consuming calories for the first half of the day, stopping eating after 6pm. While this is feasible with an intermittent fasting type diet (read about intermittent fasting Here); it is not recommended for all body types and typically is not something I recommend without guidance. It is not when we eat, but what we eat that makes all the difference. Some lean protein and healthy fats throughout the evening can actually increase your metabolism and supercharge your weight-loss and muscle gain!
Avoid these common misconceptions and you will be off to a great start!
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