A low-carbohydrate diet limits all carbohydrates, such as bread, grains, rice, starchy vegetables and fruit, according to the Mayo Clinic. Many low-carb diets, like the Atkins diet and the Zone diet, also emphasize high fat and protein. Most low-carb diets are started to lose weight, and they usually produce ketones. Talk with your doctor before following any type of a low-carb diet.
Results of the Diet
Low-carbohydrate diets usually produce weight loss results at first. This is largely due to water loss because low-carb diets have a diuretic effect. The Mayo Clinic also explains that low-carb diets, with a higher fat and protein content, take longer to digest than carbs, and can lead you to feel fuller for longer. In addition, most low-carb diets are low in calories because they limit the variety of food that you are able to eat. The Mayo Clinic states that the weight loss may or may not continue long term, and if you abandon the low-carb diet and return to your former eating habits, you may regain any lost weight.
Dangers for Diabetics
When on a low-carb diet, your cells don't get the glucose they need for energy, and your body begins to burn fat for energy, which produces ketones, the American Diabetic Association, ADA, explains. This can lead to a very dangerous condition for diabetics called ketoacidosis. Signs of ketoacidosis are thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, nausea and bad breath. Eventually this condition can lead to diabetic coma or even death, the ADA states. Diabetics should take extreme caution when considering a low-carbohydrate diet and always discuss options with their family physician.
Effects of Ketones
Ketosis is the condition caused by incomplete fat breakdown and the releasing of ketones in the urine. Ketones can be tested with a strip while urinating, small levels are less than 20 mg/dL, moderate is 30 to 40 mg/dL, and high levels are 80 mg/dL. Side effects of ketones can include weakness, nausea, dehydration, dizziness and irritability, according to the Mayo Clinic. The National Institute of Health explains that men and women on the animal-based, ketosis-inducing low-carb diet had a 23 percent increased risk of death, a 14 percent increased risk of dying from heart disease and a 28 percent increased risk of dying from cancer. Consult with your doctor about low-carb diets, ketones and your unique situation.
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