Are you looking to lose weight?..Exercise and a good diet will provide results. However, there are many misconceptions about nutrition on the internet and people fall for popular/fad diets. An example is the zero to low carb diets. These diets claim that eating zero to low carbs is the best way to lose weight, but evidence based studies have determined that low carb diets can be “very hard on the body” despite the claims of quick and sustainable weight loss.
What are Carbohydrates?
“Carbohydrates (carbs) are the sugars, starches and fibers found in fruits, grains, vegetables and milk products.”
How low carb diets affect your body.
Decreasing or completely eliminating an entire food group from your diet such as Carbohydrates can cause:
- Fatigue/Tiredness, since carbohydrates are the main source used for energy by your body.
- Deficiency in vital essential nutrients such as Iron, Vitamin B, and Fiber.
- Increase risk of heart and kidney disease due to most low carb dieters consuming higher fat and cholesterol foods.
- Digestion Problems due to Fiber deficiency
- Risk of High Blood Pressure
- Increased headaches
And many more possible health risks!
In the video below, a registered nutritionist speaks on the importance of consuming enough carbohydrates on a daily basis for proper body function.
Studies have shown that Low Carb dieters are at risk of binge eating due to completely depriving themselves from an entire food group. In general low-carb diets have been proven difficult to stick to, and often dieters gain the weight they lost back.
The following video explains a more healthier approach to losing weight. “Flexible Dieting”. This diet allows you to consume any type of food you want as long as you don’t go over your calorie allotment for the day. You will lose weight without having to eliminate any important food group.
Losing weight is a common fitness goal among millions of people of all ages. However, it is important to learn and educate ourselves of the potential risks of attempting any diet. The internet is filled with many useful information however, there is also many false claims that can do more harm than good. When in doubt consult your doctor before considering to try any diet plan.
Sources:
George, L., & L., G. (2005). Low-Carb Lament. Maclean’s, 118(3), 42.
ROBERTSON-ABIAD, S. (2015). The DIET DUEL. Muscle & Fitness Hers, 16(2), 70.
Ben, S. (2016, March 18). Official: Low-carb diets are bad for your health. Daily Mail. p. 22.