If you are not fueling your body with proper nutrients, this will have an adverse affect on your body?s performance and overall fitness level. While eating healthy is paramount, there is some misleading information being spread around that can negatively affect your health.

Here are some common mistakes made when trying to achieve a healthy lifestyle......

Energy Drinks and Energy Bars - Simply put, energy drinks and energy bars are lacking in antioxidants. Antioxidants are vital in protecting your body against cancer. You are much better off eating fruits and vegetables for an quick source of energy. Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber which are essential for good health. Energy drinks and energy bars are OK if used occasionally. However, they should not be a substitute for more healthier options.

Breakfast - Skipping meals, especially breakfast, is never a good idea. Breakfast is your first meal of the day and is vital for a healthy lifestyle. Breakfast is significant as your body is craving the nutrients that will keep you fueled thorough the day. Without a healthy breakfast, your body will be hungry thorough the day.

Eating Anything - Everyone needs nutrients such as fruits and vegetables, whether you exercise or not. If you workout regularly, this is no excuse to fill yourself with junk food. In the short run you will feel as though you deserve a reward for your efforts. However, in the long run, your training efforts will prove to be useless if you are not eating balanced, nutritious meals.

Fad Diets - Fad diets, especially low carb diets are simply not healthy. The fact is that your body needs carbs for muscle development and for the storage of energy.

Empty Stomach Workouts - This rule is simple, if you hear your stomach growling, your body is sending you a message. By ignoring this message, you are telling your body to function without any fuel. Always eat a light snack, such as a piece of fruit, before any physical activity or exercise.

Cutting Calories - Its true that when losing weight, you should manage your caloric intake, however, losing weight too quickly is simply not safe. Set a healthy goal for losing weight, such as a pound or two a week. It is essential that you get enough calories to keep your body operating efficiently. If you find that you are dropping weight too quickly, be sure to add more calories to your diet.

Drinking - For active people, water, milk and fruit juices are highly recommended. Don?t let feeling thirsty be a requirement for drinking fluids. You should drink often and in frequent intervals, especially when exercising or working out. After all, once you feel thirsty, this is a signal that your body is already running low on fluids.

The key to improved body performance is changing how you eat. The healthier you eat, the better your body will perform and the better you will feel. Healthy eating is a lifestyle you should strive for, no matter if you are young or old. You will quickly see changes in your fitness level as soon as you give it a chance.