Weight Loss

Myth: Some people can eat whatever they want and still lose weight. Fact: To lose weight, you need to burn more calories than you eat and drink. Some people may seem to get away with eating any kind of food they want and still lose weight. But those people, like everyone, must use more energy than they take in through food and drink to lose weight. A number of factors such as your age, genes, medicines, and lifestyle habits may affect your weight. If you would like to lose weight, speak with your health care provider about factors that may affect your...

Food Myths Myth: Eating meat is bad for my health and makes it harder to lose weight. Fact: Eating lean meat in small amounts can be part of a healthy plan to lose weight. Chicken, fish, pork, and red meat contain some cholesterol and saturated fat. But they also contain healthy nutrients like iron, protein, and zinc. TIP: Choose cuts of meat that are lower in fat, and trim off all the fat you can see. Meats that are lower in fat include chicken breast, pork loin and beef round steak, flank steak, and extra lean ground beef. Also, watch portion size. Try...

Be active to look and feel better! Don't do it because you're “supposed to.” Be active to... Get better control of your weight, a more toned look, and stronger muscles Have more energy for other fun times, like hanging out with your friends Make friends who share your interests in dance, sports, or other activities Improve your mood and ability to focus for sports and school Here's how your activity can add up: ​10 minu​tes – Walking/biking to a friend's house 30 minutes – Shooting hoops 20 minutes – Dancing 60 minutes of activity! Get up and move!​ Be active...

Physical Activity Myths​ Myth: Lifting weights is not a good way to lose weight because it will make me "bulk up." Fact: Lifting weights or doing activities like push-ups and crunches on a regular basis can help you build strong muscles, which can help you burn more calories. To strengthen muscles, you can lift weights, use large rubber bands (resistance bands), do push-ups or sit-ups, or do household or yard tasks that make you lift or dig. Doing strengthening activities 2 or 3 days a week will not "bulk you up." Only intense strength training, along with certain genetics, can...

Have you heard these claims before? A large number of diets and tools are available, but their quality may vary. It can be hard to know what to believe. This fact sheet may help. Here, we discuss myths and provide facts and tips about weight loss, nutrition, and physical activity. This information may help you make healthy changes in your daily habits. You can also talk to your health care provider. She or he can help you if you have other questions or you want to lose weight. A registered dietitian may also give you advice on a healthy eating...