Understanding The Facts About Losing WeightKnowing the truth about losing weight can help you separate what works from what doesn’t. Don’t getcaught up with expensive weight-loss fads that promise unbelievable results. There’s no magic way to lose weight. Below are some of the most common misconceptions people have about losing weight and keeping it off. "The faster I lose weight the better." Fact: Rapid weight loss is usually due to loss of water or muscle mass. What you’re trying to get rid of is extra fat. Aim to lose a half pound to two pounds a week. Then you’re more likely to lose fat rather than water or muscle. "Skipping meals will help me lose weight. " Fact: When you skip meals, you don’t give your body the energy it needs to work. Hunger makes you more likely to overeat later on. It’s best to spread your meals throughout the day. Eat five to six small meals a day or three meals and two snacks. "Once I lose weight, I can go back to living the way I did before. "Fact: Going back to your old eating habits and giving up exercise is a sure way to regain any weight you’ve lost. The lifestyle changes that help you lose extra weight can also help keep it off. This is why you need to make realistic changes you can stick with. "I can't start exercising until I lose weight. " Fact: The sooner you start exercising the better. Exercise helps burn more calories, tone your muscles, and keep your appetite in check. People who continue to exercise after they lose weight are more likely to keep the weight off. "The fewer calories I eat, the better. " Fact: This seems like it should be true, but it’s not. When you eat too few calories, your body acts as if it’s on a desert island. It thinks food is scarce, so it slows down your metabolism (how fast you burn calories) to save energy. By eating too few calories, you make it harder to lose weight. "Low-fat and fat-free mean low calorie. "Fact: All foods, even fat-free ones, have calories. Eat too many calories and you’ll gain weight. A dietitian will help you figure this out, and will likely recommend that you eat three meals a day, with protein for each meal. Learn to read nutrition labels to see what you are really eating. Ready to Take the First Step?Attend an upcoming weight loss seminar. Join Drs. Seth Miller or Michael Schuhknecht to learn more about the latest options for losing weight and local resources, including bariatric surgery. All Lose Weight..Find Health seminars are held from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Click here to sign up.