Weight Loss Myths And Presumptions Contribute To Failed Anti-Obesity Policies

One reason it’s hard for many people to lose weight – and why public policies tackling obesity are not working – is the prevalence of weight loss myths and unproven presumptions about the weight loss process. Among the nine myths described by U.S. scientists: losing weight quickly, as opposed to more slowly,  predisposes people to greater weight regain; realistic weight loss goals are important to prevent people from getting frustrated and losing less weight. Among the 10 unproven presumptions: eating breakfast every day protects a person from getting fat; eating at bedtime contributes to weight gain. The authors said belief in these myths and presumptions leads to poor policy decisions, inaccurate public health recommendations and wasted resources.