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�Low carb diet� is a term that envelopes several kinds of diets, including the Atkins Diet, the South Beach Diet and others. These types of diets all have one factor in common: the significant reduction of foods that contain carbohydrates.

Details

The amount of carbs allowed varies based on the specific diet, but most low carb diets require a significant reduction in foods such as breads, potatoes, starchy vegetables and fruits. Instead of these foods, proteins and fats are emphasized. Proponents of this diet hold that eating less carbs will result in lower blood sugar levels and lower insulin production, which will, in turn, lead to weight loss.


Benefits

One obvious benefit of this diet is the undertaking of a complete nutritional restructuring. Dieters who can maintain and succeed at such a specific dietary undertaking are likely to succeed at other health-based lifestyle changes, as the discipline and dedication required are formidable.

In addition, dieticians often recommend the reduction of carbs and sugars in an overall healthy eating plan.

Community

Although it does not specifically come with a community of its own, being on a low carb diet gives entrance to a worldwide community of dieters. This is because the �low carb craze� of the late 90s and early 2000s meant that low carb diets became a household name, and were one of the most popular types of diets around. No matter which specific type of low carb diet you choose, you�re likely to find a world of support.

But Does It Work?

Often, the resultant weight loss of these diets isn�t necessarily from lowered blood sugar and insulin, but could possibly be from lowered caloric load. Reducing carbs such as refined flour and sugars reduces calories, which is a proven way to lose weight. Supposedly, low carb diets work quicker than healthier undertakings, but the discrepancy soon narrows, and weight loss is better sustained on easier, less restrictive diets. Some of the initial weight loss in low carb diets may simply be water weight loss.

In addition, many low carb diets require constant vigilance- your diet is never done! Maintaining this type of nutritional limitation isn�t necessarily easy, and the likelihood of attrition is high.

Researchers and dieticians have weighed in on the low carb trend, too. Due to its restriction of foods normally considered healthy, and its allowance of excessive meats and proteins, nutritionists have not generally come out in favor of low carb plans.

What Should I Do?

The science and theories behind the low carb craze are worth knowing, but the best way to a healthier lifestyle is through a balanced, moderate-calorie diet, coupled with increased exercise. You should also seek appropriate support from experts such as nutritionists and personal trainers.

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