Doctors prescribe Cymbalta to treat depression and anxiety disorders, as well as other health conditions such as pain, fatigue and sleeping disorders. This medication, also known by the generic name duloxetine, should not have an effect on your diet, even if you follow a restrictive plan, such as the Atkins diet. However, certain side effects from Cymbalta and low-carb diets may mimic one another. Talk to your doctor before beginning a new diet plan to discuss the possible effects.
Atkins Diet
The Atkins diet recommends that you have a minimal carbohydrate intake each day to help encourage weight loss. If you follow this plan, you will begin in the first phase, also known as the induction phase. You will limit your carb intake to 20 grams each day. As you lose weight you will move through the phases until you reach the fourth and final phase designed to help you maintain your weight loss. Each of these phases allows you to gradually increase the amount of carbs you consume each day.
Ketosis
Due to the carb restrictions on the Atkins diet, you may not consume enough to properly fuel your body. This carb deficiency puts your body into a state called ketosis, which results in increased amounts of ketones in your body. Keytone levels increase when your body burns fat for fuel. This ketogenic state will often cause you to feel fatigued and have low energy levels.
Connection
As with any medication, Cymbalta use could result in side effects, and these complications include increased tiredness. If you take Cymbalta and follow the Atkins diet, you and your doctor will need to work together to determine the cause for your fatigue. She may recommend that you stop using Cymbalta and see if your symptoms improve. If you continue to feel sluggish and tired, you may need to increase your carb intake to see if bringing your body out of the ketogenic state will restore your energy levels. Together you and your doctor can formulate a plan that will help you reach your weight loss goals while also treating your medical condition with Cymbalta or other medications.
Considerations
If you take Cymbalta and notice unusual side effects, inform your doctor immediately. You should not begin following a low-carb diet or other restrictive eating plan without first consulting your doctor. If you have certain health conditions, the Atkins diet may not offer the best method of weight loss, and your doctor can help you determine if this is the appropriate plan for you.
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