Although lots of experts disapprove of low carb diets for health reasons, many, particularly those who love bacon and eggs, may find it works for them. But it's not a long-term diet.
What is it?
There are lots of different low-carb diets around but the Atkins Diet is perhaps the most famous. Carbohydrates consist of sugar, starches and fibre and are found naturally in lots of foods such as fruit, veg, wholegrain cereals and brown rice.
A low-carb diet is where you restrict the number of carbs you eat, replacing them with protein rich foods like meat and cheese.
How does it work?
Our bodies break down carbohydrates and fats into sugar which then gives us energy. Low-carb diets are based on the idea that if we don't eat carbohydrates, our body will use stored fat for energy instead.
Your comments
Becky
I've been on a low carb diet before (Atkins) and lost about 25 lbs. in a month. I followed the plan as directed. Where a lot of people make a mistake is that they go overboard and think if the plan says high protein, then that's all they will eat.The same goes with fats. The plan is actually balanced with veggies, and after the first two weeks, you're allowed 30 gm. of carbs a day, gradually adding more until you see yourself adding weight. Then you know that's the limit of carbs that your body will tolerate. Here's another key: water...but don't go crazy with it. You can poison yourself by drinking too much. Anywhere for 64 oz. to 96 oz. should be fine. If you're sweating a lot you can add more, but you may want to add a sports drink with electrolytes as part of your liquid.
Cat
Hi, I'm getting married in Ocotber and would like to loose 7lbs before my wedding. I go to the gym 3 times a week but I can't loose weight. I was thinking of trying a low carb diet from now until my wedding, I wouldn't cut carbs out completly though I would still eat fruit and have a carb day one day at the weekend. Do you recommend this or do you think it would be to dangerous to follow a low carb diet for such a long period of time.