Food and Diet Myths

There are millions around the world trying out hundreds of different diets in a desperate attempt to lose weight. And this isn't just fad diets we're talking about. Today, there's every kind of diet to suit the dieter - the Atkins diet, the GI diet, the No Salt diet, the Low Salt diet and on and on the list goes. But when we try to lose weight super quick and when it doesn't work for us, frustration builds up; thus defeating the purpose.

What could be the possible Problem Areas?

Time to analyze and find out the hidden traps that just might be sabotaging your diet:

• Bread: Take the popular idea that two slices of toast and tea is a good way to reduce calories. Think again! The conversion of toast to fat is much faster than the conversion of roti (chapati) to fat.
  Better option: Rotis (Chapatis) made from a mixture of atta (what flour) and bran is the better option.

• Chewing gum: Chewing gum is another culprit containing sugar. The speed of sugar conversion to fat in a single stick of gum is comparable to that of one slice of toast.
  Better option: Wouldn't you say that its better to chew on an elaichi (cardamom)?

• Supari (Betel Nut): For the supari lover, here's the deal - supari (betel nut) and paans (betel leafs) load on quite a few extra calories. So the next time you want it real bad, try to restrict or avoid.
  Better option: If you just can't, then opt for elaichi (cardamom) or dalchini (Cinnamon).

• Diet drink and chocolates: Another bunch of tricksters are diet soft drinks and diet chocolates that contain artificial sweeteners. These sweeteners raise insulin levels to an extent that causes water retention and weight gain.
  Better option: Go for fresh lime soda. Avoid packaged lime cordial.

• Peanuts: The popular peanut may be economical but it can add on 600 calories per 100 gm in its roasted avatar.
  Better option: Try roasted channa (bengal gram) instead.

• Diet sweets: These may be low on fat but are high in sugars, of which 90% converts to fat.
  Better option: Go for stewed or microwaved apples or pears. Sprinkle with powdered cinnamon.

• Biscuits: These foods are a sugar trap too. Do we ever count how many we tend to eat a day by the office coffee machine?
  Better option: Channa murmura is a healthier bet and it will fill you up too!

• Coffee: Count the cups of coffee drunk at work, at home and at the café. Each cup is 15 calories, if taken with sugar. So 15 x 6 cups is 90 calories.
  Better option: Instead opt for sugarless herbal tea.

• Packaged and thick soups: This can be a problem area. Most restaurants add a lot of cream and corn flour to their soups. That's a lot of fat.
  Better option: Choose clear soups or chicken/vegetable stew.

• Processed foods: All processed foods contain stabilizers, chemicals and preservatives. They have to be treated so they last atleast a year on the shelves. Not a good idea for weight loss.
  Better option: The fresher version of any food is best.

• Mayo-based dressing salads: These may be really tasty but they're loaded with fat!
  Better option: Yogurt based dressings for salads are a wiser choice and you'll get used to the change in taste!

So there you have it. Now you can lose weight with better options to choose from, whether it is home food or eating out. Good luck!