Low Carb Diet

The low carb diet is one of the most popular diets on the market today. The different versions of the low carb diet each have their differences but all work on the general belief that excess carbohydrates are the cause of all the problems. Understanding a little anatomy and physiology will help clarify the science behind the low carb diet.

The body uses carbohydrates, namely glucose, as an energy source. All the body's cells require glucose for energy. In order for the body to use glucose it requires insulin to transport it. Insulin also transports the excess glucose into fat stores for later use. These fat stores are released in times of excessive energy demands and when glucose is diminished in the blood stream. This is a very basic look at the science behind the low carb diet. The belief is that if the carbohydrates in the diet are limited then the body will be required to liberate the stored energy and thereby reduce the fat stores.

This is a very basic look and the actual science behind the various diets gets much more complex. The relationship between certain nutrients and hormone releases has been studied extensively. The interaction between energy systems and energy sources also comes into play in each low carb diet. Nutrient intake timing is also an important factor that varies among the different diets.

Before beginning a low carb diet it is important to get checked out by a physician. The increased protein and fat intake requires the elimination of more waste products, due to the metabolism of these nutrients. An increase in nitrogen and ketones must be eliminated. A healthy body can handle this easily through the kidneys. However, kidneys that are not functioning properly can quickly become overtaxed. An acid/base imbalance can also be exacerbated by increased lipid (fat) metabolism. Diabetics on medication should use caution when approaching a low carb diet because of the risk of hypoglycemia. Their medication levels and timing may need to be adjusted.

So, with all that said why would anyone choose a low carb diet? The easy answer is because it works. The most popular ones being the South Beach Diet. More importantly, it is sometimes the only method that works for some people. It is a great change up for those who have been on low fat, high carbohydrate diets with little success. The great thing is that people who have been avoiding fats completely often get a chance to eat some of the foods they have been missing. This does not mean that people can eat pounds of bacon, greasy burgers, lard straight from the jar or sticks of butter. Healthy fats mixed with the occasional fatty treat, however make this an effective diet choice for some people.

A good low carb diet, contrary to the old belief, can be a very good choice for those with cardiac problems. The increase in healthy fats (from fish and oils) can be very beneficial to heart health. The lower blood sugars associated with a low carb diet can also be helpful in lowering the chances of plaque building up in the circulatory system. Finally, the increased fiber and vitamin intake is a great boost for overall health and wellness.

The answer to, "Why a low carb diet?" is simple. If it works for you and is approached reasonably it can be a great boost to overall health. As with any diet, the greatest benefit comes from losing the excess weight and finding a healthy nutritional plan that you can stick with.