In today’s social media-driven world, fitness advice is everywhere — but not all of it is true. Many Indian women, in pursuit of weight loss and better health, often fall prey to myths that do more harm than good. At SheLit, we believe in empowering women with truth, not trends. Let’s bust five common weight loss myths that Indian women must stop believing.
Myth 1: Skipping Meals Helps You Lose Weight
Truth: Skipping meals, especially breakfast, slows down your metabolism and often leads to overeating later in the day. It also affects blood sugar levels, making you feel lethargic or irritable.
What to do instead: Eat smaller, balanced meals at regular intervals. Include protein, fiber, and healthy fats to stay full longer and avoid cravings.
Myth 2: Only Cardio Burns Fat
Truth: Cardio alone is not the magic bullet. Strength training is equally — if not more — important for fat loss. Muscle burns more calories than fat, even at rest.
What to do instead: Combine cardio with strength training and bodyweight exercises to tone your body and boost metabolism. Don’t be afraid to lift weights — it won’t make you bulky.
Myth 3: Indian Food Is Too Fatty for Weight Loss
Truth: Indian cuisine is not inherently unhealthy. It’s the cooking methods (too much oil, frying) and portion sizes that make a difference. Traditional foods like dal, sabzi, roti, dahi, and homemade chutneys are rich in nutrients.
What to do instead: Choose whole grains, use less oil, and cook with natural spices. Millet-based rotis, steamed idlis, and khichdi can be both comforting and weight-loss friendly.
Myth 4: You Must Avoid All Carbs
Truth: Not all carbs are bad. Whole grains like brown rice, oats, jowar, bajra, and vegetables are essential for energy and digestion. The key is avoiding refined carbs like maida, white bread, and sugar-loaded snacks.
What to do instead: Eat complex carbs in moderation. Pair them with protein and fiber for a more balanced meal that keeps you energized longer.
Myth 5: Detox Teas and Crash Diets Give Fast Results
Truth: Quick fixes like detox teas or extreme diets may cause water loss, but they’re not sustainable. They can lead to nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, and yo-yo weight gain.
What to do instead: Focus on long-term lifestyle changes. A nutritious diet, regular physical activity, proper hydration, and good sleep work far better than any “miracle” solution.
Weight loss isn’t about punishment or perfection — it’s about health, balance, and self-love. Indian women deserve better than misleading myths and toxic body ideals. At SheLit, we encourage every woman to embrace fitness on her own terms — with facts, not fads.
Your body. Your pace. Your power.