MYTHBUSTERS
THREE EXPERTS UNPICK COMMON HEALTH AND FITNESS MYTHS
You need to wait an hour after eating to go swimming
Isaac tetteh afedi
Personal trainer, Le Méridien Abu Dhabi
lemeridienabudhabi.com This myth comes from the belief that after eating, any available blood in the human body will flood to the stomach to aid digestion. The theory goes that this flooding leaves limbs so devoid of blood, they can’t function normally. This, the myth suggests, causes cramps and can even possibly lead to drowning when swimming. The truth is, while blood does flow to our stomachs after eating a big meal, it isn’t enough to cause cramps. We have enough blood to perform many functions in the body simultaneously. In fact, some professional swimmers eat right before they swim so they have the fuel to compete over long distances at higher performance levels. Eating close to bedtime contributes to weight gain
Julie Johnson
Health coach, De Novu
de-novu.com Despite popular belief, calories have the same effect on the body no matter what time of day they are consumed, although eating a few hours before bedtime certainly has benefits. Firstly, it allows for proper digestion, which means you can avoid heartburn and bloating. On the flip side, it’s important not to be hungry when going to bed as your body is preparing for its nightly fast. The body uses plenty of energy during sleep as your metabolism is constantly at work; although it is somewhat slower. So eating certain foods containing protein like cottage cheese, yoghurt and nuts before bed can help the body recover, and can even help build muscular strength. It is harder for women to lose weight than it is for men
sabine monks
Manager, Yas Ladies and Yas Kids
vfuae.com Unfortunately, the myth is true. Unfair? I know, but let me explain the genetics. The simple truth is that men are larger and have more muscle than women. They are genetically designed to have a higher percentage of muscle and less fat – which works in favour of keeping them fit and allowing them to eat more calories. And since more muscle means a faster resting metabolism, men’s bodies naturally burn calories at a faster rate. But with a little work, women can even up the odds. To build more muscle, pick up some weights. You’ll increase your muscle mass and decrease your fat stores by doing strength training at least twice a week.