Weight Loss Myth #10 – Runner’s World Magazine

Myths to be covered – (Topics already covered are in bold)

1. To lose weight cut carbs or fat
2. Exercise in the fat-burning zone
3. Mini-meals are better than three hearty ones
4. Lift less weight with more reps to get toned
5. You can “make up” weekend splurges
6. You have to ban “bad” foods
7. Eating at night causes weight gain
8. Low-fat foods are a healthy choice
9. Weight lifting will only bulk you up
10. Running on empty is a smart way to burn extra fat
11. You can spot reduce fat
12. Longer exercise sessions equal better results
13. You can’t overcome your genes
14. Keeping it off is the easy part

My intention has been to get through these, so I find myself apologizing once more to the delay. So we have 5 left.

Myth – Running on empty is a smart way to burn extra fat. From Jim – OK I know it says running, but there are those out there think doing anything on an empty stomach is a good way to burn extra fat.

In theory, because your blood sugar and muscle carbohydrate levels are low after on overnight fast, running before breakfast forces your body to use fat as its main fuel. “But exercising on an empty stomach is like trying to run your car without gas,” says Stoler. “You need carbs in your system to start your engine and to keep it going strong to burn more total calories.” Not only do muscles prefer to run on carbs, but so does your brain. “Exercising with brain fog reduces intensity and increases injury risks,” says Stoler. She suggests fueling up with 100 to 200 calories about 30 minutes before and morning workout. “this also cuts down on post exercise hunger and curbs overeating,” she adds.

Jim’s thoughts -

Ok this article is focused on runner’s and working out in the morning and I am in total agreement. Well what about the rest of the population trying to loose weight and workout at lunch or in the evening? It is a good thing this answer works for all and at all times of the day. Food is our energy that helps keep the furnace going. Their car analogy is perfect for anyone, not just runner’s. In order to loose weight we have to eat. How weird does that sound, when the rest of the world basically says to cut back on your eating or cut out a certain group of food like carbs. Remember this article actually states your muscle prefer carbs.

I am not saying you need to eat 5 or 6 large meals through out the day. Smaller meals/snacks throughout the day works. How do I know? Well, I did lose 70 lbs. this way.

Until next time this is your Fitness Buddy!