Low carb diets are based upon the premise that you can lose weight by limiting carb consumption because carbohydrates are what trigger your body to release extra insulin, which is what makes your body store fat. This is something every diabetic knows: extra insulin production causes the body to store extra calories as fat. But do low carb diets work? A diet of no or very few carbohydrates, which can indeed result in impressive weight loss.
If the results of low carb diets are so impressive, why are so many people still overweight? Few people can stick to a low carb diet long term, and the diet doesn’t emphasize any kind of portion control. Your body is used to burning carbohydrates as fuel, and it is a lot mroe work for the body to convert fat and muscle to fuel than to convert carbs. And yes, your body will indeed take some of the fuel it needs for daily functioning from your muscles if you are on a low carb diet, especially if you don’t lift weights or perform other forms of muscle-building exercise.
What part of a low carb diet is good and worth examining? The diet highlights the fact that Americans tend to eat too many carbs, especially in the form of refined sugar and starches, so limiting carbs is a good idea—to a certain extent. However, you have to honor your body’s need for carbhydrates or else risk trying to perform athletically with a body that is fatigued, weakened, and low on fuel.
The healthy solution? It’s wise to reduce your simple carb consumption, eating small amounts of complex carbs instead. Eat plenty of protein, vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and nuts. Always include exercise in any weight loss plan so you will tone up and keep building muscle. Pay attention to the following: portion control, calories, and quality of food, all in addition to exercise.
This is the kind of weight loss plan you want: something sustainable over time.
