The Weight Loss Lies We’ve Been Told—And What Actually Works

If you’ve ever tried to lose weight, you’ve probably heard it all: Cut carbs. Eat less. Work out more. Drink only smoothies. Do two-a-days at the gym. Hustle harder.

Sis, let’s pause right there.

We’ve been fed a lot of lies about weight loss—especially as Black women navigating life after 35. These lies don’t just hurt our progress; they damage our relationship with food, movement, and even ourselves.

Let’s call out some of the biggest lies and talk about what actually works.

“You Just Need More Willpower”

We’ve been told that if we could just “try harder,” we’d lose weight. But weight loss is not about willpower—it’s about strategy, hormones, stress, sleep, and support. You’re not weak. You’re human.

✨ What Works: Building habits that feel doable and consistent, not restrictive. Progress comes from small steps that you can build over time.

“Carbs are the Enemy”

Carbs have been demonized for decades, but here’s the truth: your body and brain need them. Cutting out all carbs can leave you tired, irritable, and craving everything in sight.

✨ What Works: Choosing quality carbs—like sweet potatoes, brown rice, quinoa, oats, and fruit. These fuel your workouts and keep your energy stable.

“Endless Cardio is the Only Way”

We’ve all seen it: hours on the treadmill, sweat dripping, and still no real change. Cardio has its place, but it’s not the magic answer.

✨ What Works: Strength training + walking + rest. Strength training builds muscle (which burns fat), walking supports heart health and stress relief, and rest allows your body to recover and grow stronger.

“Fast Results Mean Lasting Results”

Crash diets might work for a few weeks, but the weight almost always comes back—and often brings friends. Quick fixes are not sustainable.

✨ What Works: Slow, steady progress. A balanced approach to nutrition, movement, and mindset is what leads to lasting change.

Final Word

Sis, weight loss is not about punishing yourself—it’s about caring for yourself. It’s about eating foods that fuel you, moving in ways you enjoy, and honoring your body as it changes.

You don’t need another fad diet. You need a plan that works with your life, not against it.

✨ Remember: You’re not failing. The lies failed you. It’s time to embrace what really works.

👉🏽Your Turn: What’s one weight loss lie you’ve believed in the past? Share it below—we’re breaking free together.