Weight loss is a tricky game with constantly changing rules. But one method has been around for years and continues to be widely practiced: the low-carb lifestyle. While this weight loss method certainly yields amazing results for some people, it isn’t for everyone and can be challenging in the beginning.
If your doctor gives go ahead with your plan to cut carbs, here are some things you’ll need to know.
How Will A Low-Carb Lifestyle Affect My Body?
Significantly reducing your carb intake is a surefire way to lose weight — if you stick with it. Because of the side effects the body often experiences during such a drastic change, many people give up too soon or fall off the low-carb wagon. This inhibits the effectiveness of cutting carbs and hinders weight loss results.
It’s good to know what to expect before you make a significant dietary change. When eliminating a large percentage of carbs from your diet, you may experience some or all of the following:
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Hunger
- Lightheadedness
- Irritability
- Chills
- Lack of coordination
- Blurred vision
Despite these possible issues, a low-carb lifestyle can be truly beneficial once your body adjusts. All you need is to know how to ease into the change.
What’s The Best Way To Make The Transition?
Each person reacts differently to a low-carb diet. Here are some tips to for success.
- Watch for low blood sugar and take action immediately. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, munch a small piece of fruit right away to prevent worsening symptoms.
- Choose carbs high in nutrients. “Low-carb” shouldn’t mean avoiding all carbs. Incorporate only nutrient-rich carbs into your diet, such as legumes and fruits. Be sure to also get plenty of protein and fiber.
- Up your water intake. Eating fewer carbs means eating more protein. Your body needs plenty of water to adequately process that protein, so drink up.
- Remember that slow and steady wins the race. When it comes to cutting carbs, more than two pounds of weight loss per week may mean you’re losing water weight and lean muscle instead of fat. Up your calories to reach a steady weight loss pace.
- Assess your happiness. If cutting carbs is making you completely miserable and constantly irritable, it may be time to consider reintroducing more healthy carbs into your diet. Your body uses these healthy carbs for energy, so don’t be too aggressive when cutting back.
For more information on transitioning into a low-carb lifestyle, or other healthy alternatives for weight loss, reach out to the professionals at Matrix Age Management.
