What you need to know about a low-carb diet before trying one

Consuming low carbs or eliminating carbs totally from the diet has become one of the most common diets. But before going this way, it’s important to know what a low carb diet is all about.

Trendy weight loss diets such as Keto and the Atkins diet entail eliminating carbs in your diet. This is not a new concept.

Reducing carbs in your diet is one of the quickest ways to lose weight. But before you embark on this journey there are some very important things to keep in mind such as your health conditions, job, age and weight as these things influence your ability to diet and exercise.

For example, people whose work involves intense physical activities are not recommended for a low-carb diet.

Also, always make sure to seek medical or expert advice before embarking on any diet.

We look at some of the things you need to know about a low-carb diet before trying one.

Research has shown that a low carb diet can cause significant improvements in blood sugar levels and weight loss. However, the weight loss might not last as you will gain the weight back once you resume your normal eating habits. So, for those of us who are looking for a quick fix with permanent changes this is not the way to go for you to go.

It’s important to keep the end goal in mind. What is your goal for this diet? If you are looking to improve your metabolism, diabetes, blood sugar, blood pressure or heart disease then this will help you lose weight within the shortest time possible.

A low carb diet means that you eliminate most of your favorite food options and only remain with a few. Unfortunately, potatoes, pasta, bread and other forms of carbs are what we mostly consume on a daily basis and now you have to consider eliminating all these from your diet.

For a low carb diet, you need to stick to more of proteins, vegetables and fruit. When this may sound easy it is challenging to have only these options for all your meals, every day.

As opposed to a low-fat diet, low carb diet does not have long term weight loss effects should you bounce back to your normal eating habits.

It, however, has very quick results that don’t necessarily last for long. If you want permanent results then you can either have to stick to this diet forever or find alternatives such as exercise.

Some health conditions such as diabetes will not allow you to do a low carb diet. If you have such a condition, consult your doctor first before embarking on any diet and make sure to see a nutritionist who will be able to advice on a diet suitable for you.

For breastfeeding moms, they need to keep their calorie intake between 2000-2500 a day to ensure they produce sufficient milk for the baby. So, this might not be the best alternative for them unless they have started weaning the baby and don’t require as much milk. Just to be on the safe side, visit your doctor or nutritionist for advise on the best diet.