While there are many low carb diets out there, very few diets specify that you may have no carbs at all. These diets, also called zero carb diets, focus mainly on getting the protein you need for healthy weight loss. There are minimal extras, such as vegetables or fats, that you are able to add to any of these diets.
No carb diets are a very restrictive type of diet, and are generally geared toward shorter term weight loss or kickstarting a diet plan. Zero carb diets will bring you into a state of ketosis very quickly, and those who undergo minor physical side effects such as headaches while transitioning into ketosis may find this solution easier. Depending on the type of no carb diet you are doing, you may be limited to eating two or three items per day. Unless you go on a specific plan, such as the Stillman diet or the Carnivore diet, you do have free reign over what to eat and when as long as it has zero carbs.
Types of Diets
There are a few types of diets that have a zero carb phase or aspect to them. The most famous of these is the Stillman diet. This is viewed in some circles as the precursor to the Atkins diet, and the main plan has no carbs. The first two weeks of Atkins are also very low carb. There is a native Carnivore diet that claims to reinstate the food selection of tribes such as the Inuit. This means you would only eat certain meats and seafood, supplemented rarely by berries or vegetables. The most common no carb diet is not a prescribed plan but a personal system of trial and error working within no carb or very low carb guidelines. Many people find that they cannot maintain a no carb diet for long and may need to cycle onto another low carb diet.
Possible Health Risks
There are a few health risks associated with no carb diets. The most common is lack of nutrients. The only way to include most of these nutrients on a no carb diet is by taking a supplement, which may or may not be an option for you. There are associations between diets heavy in red meats and certain diseases, but none have specifically been done about no carb diets. It is important to consult a health care professional before starting out on this or any diet, and getting input from a nutritionist. Emphasize how long you intend this leg of your diet to be and they will be able to give you a good outline of what you should be eating or what supplements to take.
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