Low-carb diets require limiting or completely restricting carbohydrate intake, which leads them to be classified as a fad diet. This is harmful, as carbohydrates have vital functions in the body. Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for all metabolic processes. In the limited supply or complete absence of carbohydrate, the body is forced to use alternate energy sources, which leads to a harmful domino effect on tissues and organs.
Healthy Carbohydrate Sources
Healthy sources of carbohydrates include fruits, vegetables and whole grains. These foods contain vitamins and minerals that are necessary for metabolic processes in the body, including hormone production and regulation, tissue formation and neurotransmitter production.
Effects on Fat Metabolism
Fat plays vital roles in the body. It is a structural component of cell walls, it protects vital organs, aids in temperature regulation, forms the protective lining of nerve cells and aids in the absorption of vitamins A, D, E and K. When carbohydrate intake is low, such as with a low-carb diet, fat is needed for energy in large quantities, compromising these roles. Rapid breakdown of fat produces ketones. Ketones are strong acids that disrupt the acid-base balance of the body, leading to a condition called ketosis. Ketosis can result in high levels of uric acid in the blood. High levels of uric acid are associated with kidney disease, kidney stones, gout and heart disease. According to MayoClinic.com, ketosis can also cause nausea, dehydration, dizziness and irritability.
Effects on Protein Metabolism
Although fat can be converted to energy, in the absence of carbohydrates, the body will convert protein before fat. Fat provides more calories than protein and requires fewer calories to store it. Without carbohydrates in the diet, the body is essentially in a starvation mode and it will conserve its most abundant supply of energy. The body will begin to break down its lean muscle tissue, and dietary protein will be used for energy, rather than its main function of tissue building and repair.
Effects on the Central Nervous System
The brain is the control center of the central nervous system. It only uses carbohydrates for energy. The brain has no stored supply of carbohydrates and relies on the constant supply from blood glucose. Without this supply, mental clarity and functioning is impaired. Sustained low blood glucose can lead to brain damage and death.
Considerations
Carbohydrates play many vital roles in the body. They are essential for all other nutrients to be able to fulfill their necessary functions. Without sufficient supply of carbohydrates, all other systems are compromised and can result in severe damage to the body. Consult your physician before starting any diet program.
References
- "Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism, Third Edition"; James L. Groff, Sareen S. Gropper; 2000
- "Basic Nutrition and Diet Therapy"; Sue Rodwell Williams; 2001
- MayoClinic.com; Low-Carb Diet; May 2010
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