Low-carb diets are generally used for weight loss. The theory is that eating carbohydrates, like bread, pasta, rice and sweets, increases the body's blood glucose levels, which spikes the hormone insulin. When insulin spikes too often, it can lead to weight gain and more cravings. Low-carbohydrate diets may lead to weight loss in the beginning, but they are not the way to achieve a healthy lifestyle.
Low-Carbohydrate Foods
The low-carb diet doesn't only consist of meat. While meats like beef, chicken, turkey and fish are included on the diet, you are also allowed dairy products, like cheese, as well as nuts, soy products, vegetables and certain whole grains. You can also buy low-carb convenience foods, like protein bars and shakes, at grocery and health food stores.
Temporary Weight Loss
While the purpose of low-carb diets is weight loss, the effect may only be temporary. MayoClinic.com explains that reducing carbohydrate intake has a diuretic effect on the body, because carbohydrates like bread and pasta pull moisture into the cells. During the first few weeks of the low-carb diet, your weight loss may be the result of losing water weight. Additionally, you may consume fewer calories while on the low-carb diet, simply because you do not know what to eat to replace all the crackers, chips, candy, bread, tortillas and rice you're used to eating. This will also lead to weight loss.
Side Effects
One of the most common side effects of being on a low-carb diet is constipation. Fiber from fruits, vegetables and whole grains helps add bulk to stool weight, making it easier to pass. Because meats and dairy contain no fiber, constipation is common among low-carb dieters. If you limit your carbohydrates so strictly that you go into ketosis, burning fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates, you may experience nausea, dizziness and crankiness.
Health Risks
Eating high-protein foods can be healthy, but eating too much saturated fat is not good for your heart. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that you should limit foods like steak and cheese, because they aren't heart-healthy. Diets high in fat and cholesterol may increase cancer and heart disease risks. Overall, the long-term effects of the low-carb diet are still not known.
Member Comments