Low Carb Diets – Do They Really Work?

Diets low in carbs, like the Atkins diet, have followers that rave about how quickly they are able to lose weight, and how much meat, cheese and butter they are allowed to eat. Indeed, on most low carb diets, there are no portion restrictions necessary. But will this diet work in the long term, and is it safe?

Low carb diets work by forcing your body to use its extra fat deposits for energy. When this occurs, the body produces something called ketones, which help the body flush out fat through your urine, a process called ketosis. Weight is lost rapidly, simulating a “quick fix.” However, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, only around 100 calories of fat escape the body through urine daily.

So where does this weight loss come from? It is mostly water that comes from breaking down muscle. So when the dieter grows tired of banning bread, pasta and sugar, the water loss will be quickly regained – and the weight will come back on.

In addition, carbohydrates are used by the body as a primary source of energy and supply glucose to muscle tissue. This is necessary when you are planning to exercise, as you should always do on any diet to keep your metabolism elevated and to lose fat. If you are exercising on a low carb diet, you may not be providing your muscles with enough glucose and therefore may not have as much energy.

Overall, doctors and nutritionists agree that the best way to lose weight is to eat a healthy, balanced diet, with plenty of fruits and vegetables daily. If you reduce your portion sizes and exercise as well, you can’t go wrong.