A bakery-fresh, whole-grain bagel makes a suitable breakfast for most, but not for the low-carb dieter, whose aim is to force his body to burn fat for energy by withholding his main energy source -- carbohydrates. If this method seems appealing, steer clear of the bakery and learn the techniques to successful weight loss with low-carb dieting.
Step 1
Find your diet. With so many low-carb diets circling the Internet and spanning book shelves, it might be difficult to choose your best plan. To weed out incompatible options, decide whether you want to drastically reduce your carbohydrate intake -- consume fewer than 20 g of carbohydrates daily as is required on very low-carbohydrate diets such as the Atkins diet -- or go with a less stringent approach. Keep in mind that the guidelines may differ from plan to plan, but some rudimentary rules apply. Despite the variety, no low-carb diet permits chocolate cake or potato chips, although some offer tasty substitutions.
Step 2
Purchase your products. Whether you choose low-carb shakes, meal replacement bars, or decide to prepare your own meals, you'll need options to stay on track. Although meal planning is crucial with any diet, low-carb diets call for strategic planning as you eliminate otherwise acceptable foods from your diet including cereals, certain fruits, starchy vegetables and pasta. Stock up on high-protein foods such as meat and eggs.
Step 3
Count carbs. To be successful at low-carb dieting, you'll need to learn how to calculate net carbs -- those that count toward your daily intake. Although it's not as straight forward as calorie counting, carb counting requires simple arithmetic. Subtract the fiber content from the carb content and you have your net carbohydrate value. A food with 15 g of fiber and 30 g of carbohydrates would have a net carb value of 15. Be prepared to calculate your meals in advance so as not to exceed your daily allotment.
Step 4
Exercise for at least 30 minutes daily. Squeezing fitness into your already crowded day may seem impractical, but short bursts of activity are just as constructive as longer workouts. If time is a concern, break up your routine. You might take a brisk afternoon walk and climb the stairs rather than riding the elevator. However you add movement, continue to do so daily and with increasing intensity.
Step 5
Drink at least 64 oz. of water daily. Some people swear by the 8 and 8 rule: drink eight 8 oz. glasses of water daily for adequate hydration; however, this is a suggested guideline. If your grueling fitness routine leaves you breathless and sweat-soaked, you'll need additional hydration. Additionally, low-carb dieting has a diuretic effect on the body, which causes further water loss. To be certain you get your fill of fluid, carry a water bottle with you at all times.
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