Low-carb diets are a popular weight loss option because they are easier to follow than calorie counting diets. There are pros and cons to low-carb diets, but they do encourage weight loss and promote a healthy lifestyle that is heart friendly. There are different versions of low-carb diets, such as Atkins and the South Beach Diet. However, they are based on the same principles and should be adjusted to the dieter's personal goals and needs. It is always wise to ask a physician for advice when beginning a low-carb diet.
History
The low-carb diet was created by dietitians who believed obesity was the result of insulin problems rather than overeating and fat consumption. The diet was initially designed for those who considered themselves "carb addicts," meaning they would go on binges of eating nothing but carbohydrates such as pastas, breads, potatoes and "white" refined junk foods. The theory behind the low-carb diet is that after a while the person will no longer crave carbohydrates and as a result will lose weight.
Good and Bad Carbs
Not all carbs are bad carbs. According to goodcarbs.org, good carbs are those that are high in fiber and nutrients and have a low glycemic index, meaning they don't cause rapid fluctuations in blood glucose. Bad carbs include refined and processed foods as well as foods high in starch and sugar.
Expert Insight
According to the Mayo Clinic, low-carb diets help with weight loss because they limit ingestion of starch and sugar, which prevent the body from breaking down fat. High levels of sugar in the body mean only the sugar, not fat, is being burned for energy.
Benefits
Those who have been on a low-carb diet report many benefits. These include less cravings and "emotional eating," mood stabilization, decrease in premenstrual syndrome symptoms in women and better dental hygiene due to the decrease in starch and sugar. Over time, low carb-diets lower blood sugar, reduce cholesterol, prevent heart disease and support long-lasting weight control.
Effects
Testimonials on the effectiveness of low-carb diets overwhelm the web and television. People claim they no longer have carbohydrate cravings and have lost their desire to binge on unhealthy refined foods. But the effectiveness of this type of diet is without controversy. Doubters say the weight lost is mainly water and that if the person goes back to eating as usual, the lost weight will immediately return. The most often reported side effect is ketosis, which is a metabolic disorder due to lack of sugar that can make people feel tired and lethargic.
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