Zero-carb and low-carb diets have become increasingly popular as people seek a magic bullet for weight loss. A zero-carb diet may result in weight loss, but it could present health risks after a few weeks, and any weight loss will be temporary. Permanent weight loss is achieved by eating nutrient-dense foods within your caloric needs and undertaking regular exercise. Consult your doctor before you start a restrictive diet.
Features
A zero-carb diet involves a lack of all carbohydrates in the diet including fruits and vegetables. Energy is derived from an increased intake of protein, particularly from animal sources such as meat, chicken, fish, eggs and diary products, and the accompanying high levels of saturated fat.
Ketosis
A zero-carb diet is also known as a ketogenetic diet. The absence of carbohydrates, which is the body's preferred source of energy, induces the body to break down fat into ketones, which are metabolized as an energy source. The body enters a state of ketosis, which can lead to an increase of uric acid in the blood and an elevated risk of gout and kidney stones.
Weight Loss
A low-carbohydrate diet can result in significant weight loss, according to a study by the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, published in the May 2003 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine. A low-carb diet may be sustained in the long term, but a zero-carb diet will be much more difficult to sustain, and any weight loss is likely to be temporary, as you resume your usual eating patterns.
Epilepsy
Zero-carb diets may help control seizures in children suffering from epilepsy. The lack of carbohydrates and resultant increase of ketones in the blood combats convulsions associated with epilepsy. The Vanderbilt University Psychology Department notes for the zero-carb option to be effective, the diet has to be carefully monitored to ensure carbs are not assimilated from medications, toothpastes, mouthwashes or gums that contain sorbitol, a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener.
Health Risks
A zero-carb eating plan necessitates an absence of grains, vegetables and fruits in the diet. These nutrient-dense foods contain fiber and a variety of vitamins and minerals which play a vital role in maintaining health. For example, vitamin C, a vital anti-oxidant is found mainly in fruits and vegetables. A lack of fiber in the diet can lead to constipation and a build up of toxins. Additionally, the high intake of saturated fats associated with a zero-carb, high-protein diet can lead to an increased risk of heart disease. A zero-carb diet may also lead to dizziness, sluggishness and a lack of energy.
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