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Fact: Fast foods can be part of a healthy weight-loss program with a little bit of know-how. Choose salads and grilled foods instead of fried foods, which are high in fat and calories. Use high-fat, high-calorie toppings, like full-fat mayonnaise and salad dressings only in small amounts.

Eating fried fast food (like french fries) or other high-fat foods like chocolate once in a while as a special treat is fine--but try to split an order with a friend or order a small portion. In small amounts, these foods can still be part of a healthy eating plan.

Myths:

• Fad diets work for permanent weight loss.
• Skipping meals is a good way to lose weight.
• "I can lose weight while eating anything I want."
• Eating after 8 p.m. causes weight gain.
• Certain foods, like grapefruit, celery, or cabbage soup, can burn fat and make you lose weight.
• Natural or herbal weight-loss products are safe and effective.
• Nuts are fattening and you shouldn't eat them if you want to lose weight.
• Eating red meat is bad for your health and will make it harder to lose weight.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables are more nutritious than frozen or canned.
• Starches are fattening and should be limited when trying to lose weight.
• Fast foods are always an unhealthy choice and you should not eat them when dieting.
• Fish has no fat or cholesterol.
• High-protein/low-carbohydrate diets are a healthy way to lose weight.
• Dairy products are fattening and unhealthy.
• Low-fat or no fat means no calories.
• "Going vegetarian" means you are sure to lose weight and be healthier.

Source: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.