Confused about all the diets available for weight loss?  Quick fix, fad diets are everywhere promising fast weight loss.  Consider these weight loss myths and facts: 

• Myth:  Skipping meals can help with weight loss.  Fact:  Most people who skip meals tend to overeat later in the day.
• Myth:  Eating in the evening causes weight gain.  Fact:  The time that you eat does not affect weight gain.  It is the amount of calories you take in during the entire day.
• Myth:  High protein diets work well for weight loss.  Fact:  High protein, low carb diets are often high in fat and cholesterol.  These diets are often difficult to follow long-term.
• Myth:  Some foods like grapefruit and cabbage help to burn fat.  Fact:  No food burns fat.  Reduced calories eaten and physical activity daily is the best way to lose weight and burn fat.
• Myth:  Quick weight loss diets equate to permanent weight loss.  Fact:  Quick weight loss diets are typically water losses that will be regained.  A slow weight loss of 1-2 lbs. per week is most effective long-term.

Remember that weight gain did not occur overnight and neither will weight loss.  It takes time to lose weight.  Focus on decreasing calories consumed while increasing calories expended through exercise.