Common Myths
Answers to common questions about common myths.
Questions on this page
- “Obesity is simply a lack of willpower.”
- “If I eat less, I will always lose weight.”
- “I must completely stop rice to lose weight.”
- “Fatty liver happens only to people who drink alcohol.”
- “Insulin resistance means I have diabetes.”
- “Weight-loss injections are a shortcut.”
- “Once I lose weight, obesity is cured.”
“Obesity is simply a lack of willpower.”
No. Obesity is a complex chronic disease involving biological, genetic, environmental and behavioural factors.
“If I eat less, I will always lose weight.”
Not necessarily. The body adapts to weight loss, and hunger and energy expenditure can change.
“I must completely stop rice to lose weight.”
No. Portion size and the overall diet are more important than eliminating one particular food.
“Fatty liver happens only to people who drink alcohol.”
No. Metabolic fatty liver can occur without significant alcohol consumption.
“Insulin resistance means I have diabetes.”
No. Insulin resistance can exist before diabetes develops.
“Weight-loss injections are a shortcut.”
They are medical treatments, not replacements for healthy eating, physical activity and long-term follow-up.
“Once I lose weight, obesity is cured.”
Weight regain can occur because obesity is a chronic condition. Long-term management may be necessary.