(NaturalHealth365)  Being on a diet takes lots of hard work and discipline.  If you’ve struggled to lose weight on a diet, you know how frustrating that can be.

If you’ve experienced this, you’re not alone.  Many people wonder why a diet doesn’t work for them.  Luckily, research gives clues about diet mistakes that help explain why diets fail.

Are you making one of these common dieting mistakes?

There are tons of diets out there today.  A simple internet search will reveal a myriad of dieting options and opinions.

But there are several dieting myths that can hinder your weight loss goals and even your health.  Here are seven common weight loss mistakes.

Myth #1: A low-fat diet is best

Eating a low-fat diet may seem logical for losing weight.  But this isn’t necessarily the case.  Restricting fat in your diet can actually be detrimental to your health.

One study showed that extremely low-fat diets can lead to metabolic syndrome.  Conversely, healthy fats from foods like, organic avocados, nuts and seeds are great for brain health.  Of course, another thing to keep in mind, most low-fat versions of processed foods are loaded with toxic fat or other unhealthy ingredients.

Myth #2: Going gluten-free will help you lose weight

Although cutting out gluten can result in a diet that’s lower in unhealthy processed foods, gluten-free dieting isn’t a magic weight loss answer.  And just because a food is labeled as gluten-free doesn’t make it healthy.

Many gluten-free foods still contain processed ingredients, toxic fat, and too much sugar.  To make matters worse, you’d be surprised, many of the “gluten free” foods are not really gluten free.

Myth #3: Carbs are the enemy

Cutting out carbs completely is another common diet mistake.  No doubt, refined sugars are harmful to the body.

But, in many cases, your body may need complex carbs as part of a balanced diet to convert into energy.  Understanding your own metabolic type is important, especially if you’re suffering from any chronic health issue.

Myth #4: Eating small amounts throughout the day will aid in weight loss

Some advise grazing throughout the day, eating multiple small amounts instead of three large meals.  However, studies show no evidence that this helps with metabolism or overeating.

In fact, some studies suggest that grazing leads to increased calorie consumption and weight gain.  On the other hand, there’s evidence that intermittent fasting can help.

Myth #5: Being on a diet means you can’t have tasty treats

Many desserts have unhealthy sugar and processed ingredients, but not all snacks are bad.  There are a lot of delicious, healthy snack and dessert choices.

Myth #6: Dietary weight loss supplements will help you lose weight

Unfortunately, there’s no miracle supplement or food that aids weight loss.  Healthy food choices and exercise are the most effective ways to lose weight.

Rather than relying on supplements or other weight loss shortcuts, opt for satisfying whole foods to curb hunger and nourish your body.

Myth #7: Exercise is all you need to lose weight

Exercise is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle.  But you also need to eat a balanced diet to lose weight.

You’ll likely struggle if you eat junk processed foods with refined sugar.  These can negatively impact your energy levels and promote a slew of health problems.

If you want to lose weight, both diet and exercise are essential.  For maximum benefits, consume lots of organic fruits and vegetables, clean proteins and healthy fats.  Finally, don’t underestimate the value of staying well hydrated with clean water.

Sources for this article include:

LiveScience.com