In the world of weight loss, there are many facts and myths that often get confused, making it difficult to lose weight if there’s misinformation that is commonly believed by the general public. By correcting a few fallacies, it’s easier to continue weight loss and maintain better health.

1. Losing Weight is Easier For Some Than Others

Although it can be frustrating, losing weight can be easier for one individual than another, mainly due to genetics and their body type. For men, weight loss tends to be an easier task than for women due to higher levels of testosterone for men and a faster metabolism. It’s easier for them to build muscle mass due to the testosterone, making weight loss less of a challenge.

A person’s weight will also determine how much they’ll lose each week, as those who weigh more will naturally lose more pounds than someone of a smaller size, even with the same activity levels.

2. Drinking More Water Does Not Always Lead to Weight Loss

It’s commonly believed that a higher intake of water naturally melts fat away and can quickly trim any figure. Although it may lead to a slimmer tummy, it’s often due to releasing water retention that can lead to consistent bloating, making someone appear heavier than they really are. Drinking more water is also recommended so it prevents an intake of sugary beverages and energy drinks, but cannot cause fat to burn off just through consumption.

3. Giving Up Gluten Doesn’t Shed the Pounds

Although going gluten-free is one of the latest trends for dieters as of late, experts suggest that the dietary choice is not always a healthier one, as gluten-free products often contain a higher amount of sugar, butter, and oil to make up for the loss of gluten.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, gluten-free breads can contain an average of 25 more calories per slice than typical bread, ultimately leading to gradual weight gain. Cutting gluten out of the diet does have health benefits though, which includes relieving celic disease symptoms, a disease that affects one percent of the population.

4. Making Unrealistic Weight Loss Goals

Obtaining a new physique and slimmer figure is the ultimate reward when staring a new workout routine and diet plan, but many people set too high of goals that are unrealistic and draining, leading to an unhealthy amount of weight loss too quickly. This commonly leads to binging and backsliding, gaining even more weight due to burnout.

It’s important to have patience and take things slow, making lifestyle changes that are gradual and will work to keep the weight off permanently instead of short-term. Forget about trying to lose two pounds a week, and instead opt for one pound every week or two.

5. Plateaus Are Not Always a Person’s Fault

After six months of losing weight, the majority of people stop shedding the pounds and hit a natural plateau that can be caused by the metabolism adjusting. Many people find this to be frustrating and commonly give up exercising and eating healthy once their hard work seems to stop paying off, thinking they’re doing something wrong. Stay motivated and try changing the daily workout to ensure new goals are created so the body can be challenged once again.

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Arnold Howard works at Bariatrx company, a company that provides medical help for those who want to lose weight and live a healthy lifestyle. He enjoys blogging about different fad diets, exercises that trigger weight loss, and how to maintain weight and live a healthy lifestyle.