It doesn't matter whether you read this article in 2018 or 2050, the rules about weight loss are going to stay the same. In other words, it's always going to be a huge industry, and one that always attracts plenty of coverage.

In short, the media are desperate to throw the concept of the so-called perfect body right in front of us at every opportunity. It means that pretty much every person on the planet has reasons to question their appearance, and they tend to access the internet in a bid to help them along the way.

This is where problems enter the picture. Whilst a Godsend in some cases, the internet can also provide a wealth of misinformation. There's plenty of inaccurate guides out there when it comes to weight loss and through the course of today's article, we will take a look at six of the worst myths that are commonly believed.

Myth #1 - Don't believe all you read about small changes

Every so often we come across an article that suggests that just making the odd small change can make a monumental effect on your overall weight. Unfortunately, this is seldom true.

The notion that just making a minor alteration to your lifestyle can promote huge weight loss should be ignored as a matter of urgency. However, does that mean to say that you shouldn't do this? Absolutely not.

While the small changes might not benefit you from a physiological perspective, they can set you on the right path. Ultimately, if you start to make enough of these changes, it can set you on a path for bigger losses. Furthermore, these changes will push you in the right direction; but it will be at a much slower pace when compared to someone who takes more drastic action when it comes to their weight loss.

Myth #2 - Calorie counting doesn't work for everyone

As we all know, calorie counting is pretty hot right now. In fact, if you were to carry out properly, it is one of the few tried-and-tested methods when it comes to weight loss. Does that mean that you should do it, though? Well, for the average person, there's every chance that calorie counting won't be suitable. This isn't because of the scientific way in which calorie counting works, but rather due to the psychological issues. In other words, waking up every morning and knowing that you have to count calories, as well as monitor your energy expenditure, is something that is asking for trouble. It is going to demotivate you and over time, this will result in you failing in your mission of losing weight.

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Myth #3 - Squats are the only way to shape your bum

Like a lot of the myths we will mull over today, there is a small element of truth in this first one. After all, few would disagree that squats are one of the best exercises out there. They are a compound movement, and one that develops a lot of muscles in your body.

To say that this is the only away to achieve that perfect behind is a gross exaggeration though. There are umpteen alternatives with hip thrusts and back extensions being two common favorites.

Let's not also forget that while squats can make an immense difference to your physique, they are not ideal for anyone who struggles with back problems.

Myth #4 - You can only eat leafy greens and cut out all treats

If this next myth were true, very few people in the world would be in good shape. Sure, there's nothing wrong with leafy greens, but if this is all you are turning to you are set for a rude awakening.

Let's firstly start with the issues about motivation. This links to the points we made about calorie counting earlier in the article. Sure, it might be healthy, but all this is going to do is crucify your weight loss efforts and ultimately set you up for failure.

There are other reasons to avoid this method as well. While leafy greens are obviously all well and good, they need to be complimented with other foods. Lean proteins obviously fall into this category and if you are avoiding such "fuel", you are again setting yourself up for failure. Contrary to popular belief, food is not your enemy and should be used to your advantage. Sure, it can work against you if abused, but let's not forget that without the right source of nutrition your body is not going to develop. Ultimately, your fat is not going to convert into muscle.

Myth #5 - Carbs are the ultimate enemy

We're almost certain you've heard this next myth about carbs; it has been doing the rounds for years. Sure, some studies might have suggested that cutting carbs can help you cut your waistline, but it can also lead to an imbalance.

Let's not forget that carbohydrates are fuel for the body (With an exception if you are following a Keto diet regime), and can allow the body to feel full. However, to achieve this, you'll need complex carbohydrates; the type which are slow releasing like brown rice, whole meal pasta and quinoa. All of these differ to simple carbs, in the way that they don't provide that quick energy spike which wreaks havoc with your blood sugar levels.

Myth #6 - Sex is a good form of exercise

Let's conclude with one of the more interesting myths. Unfortunately, this one is incorrect as well, with some under the belief that sex counts as intense exercise and can therefore be classed as a great way to lose weight.

As it turns out, few calories are burned in the grand scheme of things. It's understood that the average session will last for around 25 minutes, and during this time men can expect to burn just 100 calories. Women meanwhile, burn just 69.

For shorter encounters, some studies have found that watching TV is almost as beneficial from a calorie burning perspective.