Conversation between my husband and I:
Michelle: “I don’t really like it when people assume I only eat low fat foods.”
Patrick: “Well, it’s kind of a compliment. They’re indirectly assuming that you practice what you preach.'”
Michelle: “It’s not the misconception about me that’s upsetting, it’s the misconception about how to live healthfully.”
The path to consistent exercise and healthy living are (at times) misunderstood. Infomercials, elevator talk, misinformed friends or family, and poor reporting have left some of us mistaken about the effective and accurate guidelines for healthy living. Like the new kid in class, I hope you make the time to get to know the truth about effective ways to live healthfully. Below are the top three wellness misconceptions repeatedly crossing my desk:
- Misconception #1: Healthy eating for weight loss is primarily about fat and calories.
Food is more to our bodies than weight management. Nutrients are an important part of the equation. Focusing solely on fat grams and calorie intake will leave you unsuccessful (and very unsatisfied.)
- Misconception #2: Lifting weights will make me big and bulky.
I have met VERY few women in my line of work that are genetically predisposed to “bulk up.” Lifting weights has tremendous benefits for your health, longevity, injury prevention and weight loss. As long as you are with a skilled trainer, there is nothing to fear.
- Misconception #3: Faster, harder or more intense is better.
Unless you are a serious athlete or training for a VERY specific event, faster, harder and more intense is NOT necessarily better. Moderate exercises performed on a regular basis is generally an excellent exercise prescription for individuals wanting to lose weight and improve their wellness and health.
I have experienced this as well. I lost a significant amount of weight so people assume that I am thin because I don’t eat fat or junk food. I am thin because I DO eat fat and even junk food (in moderation); plus I exercise regularly. If you deprive yourself of what you truly want, you usually end up binging. When reading labels of non-fat and low-fat foods and drinks, you will see there are usually added calories, sodium, sugar, and/or ingredients you cannot pronounce. For me that is not a healthy option. You don’t want to feel unsatisfied or like it’s a chore to be healthy whether it’s through your exercise or diet plan. Try new things to find what works for you!
Great advice Dawn! You truly are someone that has walked the walk!