No Carb Diet
Diet plans that involve lowering one's carbohydrate intake, coupled with a proper exercise regimen have been shown to produce several health benefits aside from weight loss. Low carb diet recipes are available in many weight loss recipe books and online.
Why a No Carb Diet is Not Safe
Low carb diets have their benefits. However, those who are looking to drastically lose weight may want to eliminate carbohydrates from their diet altogether, especially if they think that carbohydrates are the sole causes of their weight problem. However, a no-carb diet, unlike a low carb one, poses certain risks. For one, it places the body at risk for imbalance of nutrients. Because one is no longer taking carbohydrates, the only option is to stock the diet with protein and fat through a protein diet. A no carb diet predisposes one to various chronic diseases and infections. A no carb diet may also contribute to the development of birth defects and childhood cancers, and it may cause fatigue and lethargy.
Some may argue that a no carb diet takes effect almost immediately because of rapid weight loss a few days after starting it. However, those who on a no carb diet are actually losing muscle glycogen and water, not fat. A loss of muscle glycogen results to fatigue, which is a common complaint of those on a no carb diet.
Benefits of a Low-carb Diet
Although no solid proof is present stating that no carb diets are the main reasons for weight loss, increased energy and reduced levels of trigylcerides among persons suffering from weight loss problems, various studies have linked no or low carb diets to various positive changes in the body. Aside from weight loss, other benefits to limiting or eliminating carbohydrates from the diet include more stable blood sugar levels, improved cholesterol levels and lower levels of triglycerides.
Who Can Go on A No-Carb Diet
There are occasions when a low-calorie, low carb diet is not suitable. For one, a low carb diet is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals suffering from wasting diseases and malnutrition, those suffering from cognitive difficulties, and those who need the right amount of fiber in the diet.
