If you are addicted to carbohydrates, you may have a problem with weight control. Instead of binging on unhealthy carbs, such as candy and soft drinks, you can eat healthier carbohydrates in moderation, such as fruits and whole grains, to lose weight. Speak to your doctor before making any changes to your diet.
Types
An example of a diet plan for carb lovers is the Carbohydrate Addicts Diet by Drs. Richard and Rachael Heller. You eat two low-carb meals each day and one "reward" meal that allows a modest amount of carbohydrates. For most meals, you are instructed to avoid fruit, juice, sweets, pasta, bread and processed foods. Instead, meat, chicken, turkey, oils, dressings, eggs, milk, vegetables and cheese are permitted.
Features
Although you don't need to give up carbohydrates completely on the Carbohydrate Addicts eating plan, you do need to monitor your intake more closely. Certain carbohydrates are completely eliminated, while you are allowed others as part of your reward meal after completing the two-week restricted phase. The reward meal should be made up of one-third carbohydrates, one-third protein and one-third fibrous vegetables.
Effects
According to MayoClinic.com, a low-carbohydrate diet is likely to result in weight loss. The weight loss may be caused by a loss of water weight, reduced number of calories consumed each day and feeling full after eating more protein instead of carbohydrates. However, cutting out carbs completely from your diet may cause gastrointestinal upset from a lack of fiber and ketosis. Ketosis occurs from incomplete fat breakdown and may cause nausea, weakness and mental changes.
Considerations
Instead of cutting out carbohydrates completely from your diet, the Harvard School of Public Health recommends consuming carbohydrates with a low glycemic index. Unlike high-glycemic-index foods, low-glycemic-index foods take longer to digest and will not cause a spike in blood-sugar levels. Some examples of low-glycemic-index carbs are bran cereal, pears, apples, beans, legumes, whole-grain bread and brown rice.
Warning
Do not eat high-glycemic-index foods if you want to lose weight. These carbs cause a quick spike in blood-sugar levels and may cause you to overeat. High-glycemic foods include white bread, regular pasta, candy, white rice, soft drinks and white potatoes.
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