Maybe you or someone you know has tried the low-carb approach and noticed significant weight loss.
Yes, cutting carbs will cause you to lose weight, but not much actual body fat, if any at all.
So, why do most people lose weight so quickly? It’s because the human body holds 2.4g of water for every 1 gram of carbohydrate consumed.
Cut the carbs and all you do is hold less water! This artificial weight loss is the main reason so many people are going low-carb.
Problems With Low-Carb Diets
So, not only does following a low-carb diet cause you to lose water, it also depletes muscle glycogen which leaves you feeling sluggish when trying to be active or workout. Remember, carbs are stored as glycogen in the muscles and glycogen is what’s used to fuel your muscles.
Another problem with severely limiting carbs is that the brain uses carbs for energy and without enough carbs, you won’t be 100% mentally.
But all the fitness and nutrition ‘gurus’ say that carbs are stored as fat, right? WRONG! Any excess energy (food or beverage) can be stored as fat – it doesn’t matter if it’s french fries or salad! Extra is extra is extra!
Also, there is quite a bit more research that shows that carbs are not only ok to eat, but that they also contain vital nutrients that can’t be found in other foods.
Keep In Mind
1 You need carbs, just the right amount and the right type
So what are the right types? Focus on eating carbs that are high in fiber such as vegetables, beans, fruits, and whole grains.
2 Vary the amount of carbs you have based on how active you are
For example, on days you don’t exercise, eat less carbs and maybe vary the types.
3 The one time you can go carb crazy is right after you exercise
For example, if you want to cheat and have ice cream the best time would be right after a hard workout.
Focus on eating balanced carbs, proteins and fats; and again, adjust the amount of each based on how active you are and plan to be.
