Low Carb Diet Review
What You Should Know
A Low Carb Diet is one that restricts carbohydrates in the diet, and increases protein sources. There are many Low Carb Diets in the mainstream. Some of the most common are Atkins, South Beach and Zone. Each of these diets sets a carbohydrate limit for the consumer’s diet, and many have phases. These phases are specific with what foods the consumer can eat for that time period. Many times, these phases start very restrictive, then allow more carbohydrates as the consumer moves along in the program. As with any diet in the mainstream, there are proponents and skeptics. These diets are said to cause faster weight loss, regulate blood sugar levels, and lower cholesterol.
Not applicable. A consumer considering one of these diets should read one of the many books available on the subject and use it through their diet.
A Low Carb Diet is not for everyone. The first thing a consumer who is considering a low carb diet should do is research the different plans available. The Atkins, South Beach and Zone diets all have their own processes and levels of carbohydrates that are recommended. These plans all have published books, complete with scientific explanations of the diet, lists of allowed foods and recipes to help the consumer. The consumer should purchase one of these books prior to starting the diet. Some of the diets also offer books that contain just recipes. The recipe books are helpful, and offer suggestions for substitutions of favorite foods for the lower carbohydrate variety.
Low Carb Diets are high in protein, low carbohydrate vegetables and fruit, and sometimes high in fat as well. They typically eliminate or reduce starches such as potatoes and corn, and promote leafy greens, eggplant, lettuce, and cauliflower. Cheese and other dairy products are part of these diets as well. One of the main things a consumer must do when eating a low carb diet is to start looking a nutrition labels of everything. The two main things to look at are carbohydrates (sugars) and fiber. The fiber number will cancel out some of the carbohydrate number.
- A Low Carb Diet is said to reduce weight, regulate blood sugar levels and decrease cholesterol.
- There are many varieties of Low Carb Diets available.
- Low Carb Diets may have side effects in some consumers, including fatigue, mood swings and body aches.
- Low Carb Diets may be too restrictive for some consumers.
Low Carb Diets are high in protein and vegetables, and restrictive in carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body’s main source of energy and the theory is that restricting the carbohydrates will have the body switch to using fat for energy. This may cause the body to eliminate ketones from the body when urinating. The many books available can help the consumer figure out if a low carb diet is right for them and which one. The books also assist with food choices, recipes, and tips for being successful. A Low carb Diet may not be right for everyone though. A consumer should always consult with a physician prior to making any drastic diet changes. Also, some consumers may have side effects such as fatigue, mood swings, and body aches while eating a low carb diet. This may be a signal from the body that they are not taking in enough carbohydrates. Some skeptics of low carb diets believe that a consumer should eat a variety of foods in moderation, and participate in an exercise program for lasting health and weight loss.