Although the strictness of a low-carbohydrate diet may be helpful in weight loss, it may ultimately lead to nutritional deficiencies. While it's unlikely you will lack for protein on a low carb diet, you may experience imbalances or deficits in other important nutrients. The Atkins Diet Plan recommends supplementing with vitamins while on this popular low carb diet, particularly during the early "induction" phase. Consult your physician before beginning a strict low carbohydrate diet or supplement regimen.
Vitamin B5
Also known as pantethine, vitamin B5 is valuable to low carb dieters for its cholesterol-lowering capabilities, reports Atkins Diet Plan Info. Foods high in fiber and plant sterols can lower cholesterol, and some of these foods are restricted, particularly in the early phases of a low carb diet. Although most low carb diets emphasize eating lean protein that's low in saturated fats, some meats and animal proteins may elevate cholesterol. Vitamin B5 may also produce healthy intestinal flora, which might be inhibited by metabolic resistance, Atkins Diet Plan Info. reports.
Chromium
Low carbohydrate diets operate on the concept that lowering insulin levels allows the body to burn stored fat, according to the Mayo Clinic. For this reason, your insulin levels are likely to be in flux during the early stages of a low carb diet. Atkins Diet Plan Info. reports that chromium, particularly in the form of chromium polynicotinate, may be useful in stabilizing your blood sugar and keeping it within a normal range. Atkins Diet Plan Info. recommends 300 micrograms of chromium daily to balance insulin while on a low carbohydrate diet. If you have diabetes or any other condition that calls for specific insulin requirements, talk to your doctor before embarking on a low carb diet.
Fiber Supplementation
A decrease in carbohydrates, particularly whole grain carbohydrates, is likely to result in a lack of fiber, according to the Mayo Clinic. This is particularly true in the induction phase of Atkins, in which some fruits and vegetables are also limited. The lack of dietary fiber while on a low carb diet may result in constipation. For this reason, you may need to supplement with fiber while on the low carb diet. Atkins Diet Plan Info. suggests wheat bran or flaxmeal to promote normal bowel function.
Multivitamin
Taking a multivitamin is important, but particularly important while on a diet, reports Atkins Diet Info.com. Your multivitamin should contain gamma linoleic acid derived from borage or primrose oil, Omega-3 fatty acid, B complex vitamins, and vitamins C and E. Multivitamins are not considered medical treatments and are not substitutes for a healthy diet.
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