Low-carb diets have been long advocated as successful weight loss methods. More individuals than ever are thinking about reducing their intake of simple carbs and sugar to enhance their wellness, thanks to the growth in popularity of keto meal plans and the diet for weight loss before it.
In terms of weight reduction, low-carb diets perform better than low-fat diets, but health and nutrition are more important factors to consider.
Many people who attempt carb restriction discover that this strategy may be too restrictive for long-term results. In other words, several messages contradict eating carbohydrates. However, cutting carbs is not an option to consider!
What happens to your body after you completely quit consuming carbs?
Lower energy and blood sugar levels
Because eliminating carbs lowers blood glucose and insulin levels, which limits fat accumulation in the body, so following a low-carb diet often promotes weight reduction at a reasonably quick rate. Eliminating all carbohydrates may cause fatigue, weakness, headaches, dizziness, irritability, and nausea that might linger for a few days or weeks. Brain fog and poor energy may also be present. Our brains favor glucose and carbs as their primary energy source. Thus, altering that intake has an impact.
It may reduce metabolism rate
You can endure grueling fat-loss exercises by giving your muscles the fuel they need from carbs. Your body requires sufficient carbohydrates to maintain the post-workout metabolism for as long as possible.
You might not consume enough fiber if you don't eat enough carbs
Your diet becomes deficient of one essential nutrient group-fibre. Some of the best sources of fibre include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, particularly starchy ones. They do, however, also contain a lot of carbs. Fibre is essential for healthy digestion, a strong heart, and a strong stomach. People who consume more fibre have a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease and typically have a more significant number of healthy bacteria in their microbiomes. Additionally, fibre might make you feel fuller for extended periods, which is advantageous if you consider reducing weight.
You could be deficient in vital nutrients
There is a widespread misperception that carbs mean bad even though many foods high in carbohydrates are also rich in vital vitamins and minerals. There are many different types of carbohydrates. Better or healthier carbohydrates provide value by supplying the body with vital nutrients- fibre, minerals, vitamins like magnesium and B12, and antioxidants. These beneficial carbohydrates are the building blocks for strong bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and even blood and support metabolism, digestion, and immunological function. You will lower your intake of this crucial vitamin if you drastically cut back on or eliminate all carbohydrates, particularly grains and beans. As a result, you need to incorporate different forms of carbohydrates into your overall dietary plan.
May result in eating disorders
Cutting off food categories has been linked to eating disorders. This is especially true in the case of Orthorexia Nervosa, or a healthy eating preoccupation that becomes a problem. The easiest way to describe Orthorexia Nervosa is as a fixation with healthy eating and the related restrictive habits. Although carbohydrates are not the only macronutrients linked to disordered eating, it is essential to note that avoiding this food category might lead to an unhealthy relationship with food.
What alternatives exist to entirely cutting out carbohydrates?
- Heard of low-carbohydrate foods?
Low-carb meals can help you out here! Low-carb meals can help you feel full and satisfied while consuming fewer carbohydrates and maintaining good health. Listed below are some low-carb snacks:
- Boiled eggs
- Avocados
- Cheese
- Apple
- Yoghurt with cucumber
- Nuts
- Hummus
- Leafy green vegetables
- Broccoli
- Considering foods high in fibre
There are many yummy high-fibre, low-carb meals that you can have to be healthy. You get a sense of fullness from fibre because it occupies space in your intestines but is neither digested nor absorbed. The best source of carbohydrates is veggies; therefore, eat plenty for good health. In addition to satisfying your hunger, vegetables will provide the nourishment you need to fight cancer, maintain a healthy immune system, and strengthen your heart.
Wrapping things up
Focus on consuming nutritious carbohydrates that are not processed as much as possible. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, proteins, and lipids are healthy fibre-rich meals that can fill you up and offer several health advantages. Rather than fixating certain food groups like carbs and trying to eliminate them from your diet, consider a good balance in your whole plate of food. Swap out existing carbs such as rice for healthier alternatives such as quinoa. Most importantly, keep in mind that all bodies are unique and do not compare yourselves with others. Happy-eating!