Myth #1: If I cut down my calories in half, I can lose weight faster.

Truth: When you take your caloric intake down too low, you are actually sending your body into "starvation mode". Your body wants to maintain your weight when it "thinks" you are starving; therefore, your metabolism will actually slow down and you may not lose weight.

Myth #2: Only way you lose weight is by following a strict diet

Truth: The stricter a diet is -- completely eliminating entire food groups; eating just one food (e.g. cabbage soup) -- the less effective it will be in the end. You'll get tired of the allowed food and when you feel really deprived, you're likely to call it quits altogether.

Myth #3: I need to get rid of my favorite foods

By treating yourself to your old favorites now and again, you'll stay motivated and you'll be less likely to give in to a binge. Just make sure you get back on track after your treat. Moderation is the key to successful, long-term weight loss.

Myth #4: Eating late at night will make me fat

Truth: All things considered, it doesn't really matter when you eat, only how many calories you eat and burn in a day. Whether you're eating in the morning or at midnight your body turns any extra calories into fat. In fact, eating a light snack -- like cheese and crackers -- before bed may help you sleep better.

Myth #5: I should not snack between the meals

Truth: On the contrary, eating a small, healthful snack between meals will help keep your blood sugar at an even keel and keep your metabolism going strong. You'll also avoid getting too hungry so you don't over-eat at your next meal.

Myth #6: Fat is bad

Truth: Quite simply, bad fat is bad, good fat is good. Everybody needs to include some fat in their diet. We need it; plus, it makes dishes more satisfying and palatable. Some fats are even good for you, like omega-3 fatty acids, which are found predominantly in fish and shellfish.

Myth #7: Skipping meals will help me lose weight.

Truth: On the contrary, skipping meals may actually cause you to gain weight! Your metabolism plummets and you get over-hungry. Plus, you may be under-shooting your daily calorie requirement which will backfire on you. That's why eating the meal we skip most, breakfast, can actually help us lose weight.

Myth #8: Dairy is a "don't" on healthy diets.

Truth: With non- and low-fat varieties of most dairy products on the market, working dairy into your diet is a definite "do". Women in particular need the calcium dairy products provide. Not to mention the fact that research has shown eating enough calcium can give our weight loss efforts a boost.

Myth #9: It all boils down to willpower.

Truth: Yes, willpower may be a factor when it comes to how we respond to cravings, but a lot more factors can impact our weight, including genetics, culture, home environment, activity level and health issues. The good news is eating a healthy diet and exercising can help you overcome these influences.

Myth #10: Drinking a lot of water can help me lose weight.

Truth: Drinking water in and of itself will not lead to weight loss. Of course, water is key to a healthy lifestyle and drinking enough has tons of benefits; but when people lose weight due to drinking water, it's most likely because they're substituting it for high-calorie juices and sodas.