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Is A Low Carb Diet What You Need?

March 15th, 2010

There are many questions and concerns with the low carb diet. You may want to know exactly what a low carbohydrate is. Can you really lose weight with this type of diet? Is it safe to eat that way? How long can I stay on this diet without risking my health? What should I know beforehand? Are there any special things to do when I start a diet that is very low in carbohydrates? Here are some things to consider about these diets.

What is this low carbohydrate diet?

A diet low in carbohydrates contains protein and fats. This is in place of extra carbohydrates. For example, you would not eat grains or anything associated with them, like breads. You also do not eat things like pasta and sugar. You would not eat potatoes and corn. Fruits like apples, oranges and bananas, would not be allowed due to the sugar content.

You can eat most cheeses. Most meat would be fine to eat also. Vegetables low in carbohydrates can include green leafy vegetables. You could eat fruits that were low in sugar like raspberries and blackberries.

Is weight loss possible with this diet?

Many people claim that weight loss is easier when they follow a diet that is low in carbs. The idea is that carbohydrates raise your blood sugar. This makes your insulin levels rise, to help break down the sugar. Insulin somehow causes cells to absorb the sugar and prevents fats from being absorbed. Your body will not have fat to burn and will have a hard time losing weight.

The theory is that raised insulin can prevent you from losing weight. If that is so, then lower insulin levels will help you lose weight. Proteins and fats do not cause insulin levels to rise as carbohydrates do. Many people claim this as an effective weight loss tool.

Can you do this for a long time with no health risks?

No one has been able to prove that it is bad for you. However, there is little proof that the weight loss will be permanent. Your cholesterol will not significantly rise. There is some belief that eating a diet high in animal fats may cause problems. How it can affect arterial plaque buildup is unknown.

Eating a lot of protein from meats can cause the body to eliminate calcium into the urine. Does this have an affect on bone loss? It is not known at this time. The kidneys have to work harder for people on high protein diets. This may have a long-term effect on some people.

What should you know before starting a low carbohydrate diet?

With this diet, you can eat as much as you want of the allowed foods. Do not count calories. Many people restrict carbohydrate severely for the first week or so. Then they slowly add back some low carbohydrate foods. Weight may return if you go off the diet. This may be due to returning water weight.

Summary

A low carb diet can be a good way to lose weight in the short term. A great deal is unknown as to its safety and effectiveness. One should exercise caution and try not to eat a diet that is too low in carbs. Always seek professional help if you have any concerns.

Today, many individuals are trying to lose weight. This can be easy with the right carb diet and doing frequent exercises.http://www.weight-lossfood.com/

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Health and Nutrition health, Health and Nutrition, losing weight, weight loss

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