10 Mistakes People Make When Dieting

With all of the information that surrounds us involving what the best way to diet, it's hard to tell what's really best for you and the kind of body that you have, the type of lifestyle you lead and how active you are. Here are a few of the things that you should be sure to keep an eye on and try to avoid.

1. Not eating enough.

Eating too little foods will only make your body shut down. It needs consistent sustenance for it to function well and efficiently.

2. Eating too much.

Portion control is often the most difficult thing to get a handle on. Just because you switch from juicy burgers to chicken doesn't mean you can start eating a pound of chicken to replace it.

3. Working out too much.

Your body needs time to rest and recover from workouts. If it gets the chance to recover then it will be more efficient and you are more likely to get the results that you are working so hard to get.

4. Cutting out carbs completely.

Carbohydrates are an essential nutrient in your day-to-day life. As long as it's not a staple in your diet, and you are eating whole wheat products like brown rice, oatmeal and whole wheat bread. Also, fruits and vegetables ARE carbs. If you have too many fruits then you could also be getting in too much sugar (believe it or not). Berries are an excellent choice when wanting to mix with something like yogurt, oatmeal, or an on-the-go snack.

5. Eating 3 meals-a-day.

Try eating 6 smaller meals a day. It will help bring up your metabolism and regulate your bodies effectiveness.

6. Not giving yourself any leeway.

We are all tempted by some kind of food that we "shouldn't" eat. Whether it's ice cream or peanut butter (like I am), or pizza and a cookie, it's okay to have these in moderation every now and then. By allowing yourself to give in every now and then you will be quenching that desire and be less likely to over-splurge later.

7. Frozen meals with "healthy" labels are okay for every meal.

Frozen meals may be quick and easy, but there is a lot of salt used to keep the foods edible over time. Too much salt will also effect your weight-loss goals.

8. Setting unrealistic goals.

We all have some ideal weight or body type that we want in our head. It's important to give yourself a realistic weight goal in a realistic amount of time. To say that you want to lose 20 pounds in 30 days is not healthy or realistic. Realistically you should be able to lose 1-3 pounds per week. This will help you lose regularly and maintain in the long run.

9. Focusing on weight rather than body fat.

Everyone's body type is different. Your family history, how much muscle you have and how tall you are are only a few things that play into what the "perfect" weight for you is. By focusing on your body fat percentage rather than your weight you are more focused on something that puts you into a healthier category mentally and physically. Women should not go below 14% body fat. Below this point you are more likely to start having menstrual issues.

10. Not drinking enough water.

If you are starting to feel thirsty then you are already starting to become dehydrated. It is also often believed that you need food rather than water when you start feeling hungry. If you start feeling hungry right after you eat or when you know you haven't had a lot to drink, try drinking some water and waiting for a little while. If that hungry sensation ceases then you have your answer. If it doesn't and you don't think you can make it to your next meal time then grab a handful of almonds or a piece of fruit to hold you over.

Written by: Breanna Dobbe