Following a low-carb diet is a fast way to lose weight, and many celebrities use it to keep the pounds off. While it is true that eliminating carbs from your diet will help you burn fat, it also has a number of unpleasant side effects.
We at CLAMOTION agree that there are some benefits of going low-carb, but it’s important to investigate how your body might react to such a drastic change.
1. You may feel dizzy.
Cutting
carbs out altogether is a stress on the body. When you stop eating
carbs, your body can’t burn glucose for energy anymore, and this
typically causes withdrawal-like symptoms, like nausea, headaches, and
irritability.
2. It will be harder for you to stay active.
When
your body is adapting to a new diet consisting of very little carbs, it
begins to burn fat for energy. Because fat is a slower source of fuel
than glucose, it will be harder for you to get going during workouts and
other activities.
3. It’s not good for your heart.
People who
eat very little carbs are at greater risk for premature death from heart
diseases, according to a study. Medical experts recommend avoiding
low-carbohydrate diets, as healthy carbs fight inflammation and help us
lower the risk of buildups in our blood vessels.
4. Your metabolism may slow down.
When
you suddenly cut out carbs, it can temporarily cause constipation.
Carbs high in resistant starch, like oats, speed up your metabolism,
helping you to lose weight faster.
5. You might experience muscle cramps.
Many
people who go on a carb-free diet may feel painful muscle contractions.
A drastic reduction in carbs makes your body lose more electrolytes
through urination. Because these minerals are essential for cell
communication, it can result in muscle spasms.
6. Your breath may smell bad.
Some
people may notice a strange taste in their mouth and a change in breath
within days of starting a carb-free diet. This happens because when
your body can’t get energy from carbohydrates, it begins to break down
fat for fuel and converts fatty acids into natural chemicals called
ketones. This may cause your breath to have a strong smell some people
describe as being similar to nail polish remover.
Bonus: Healthy carbs that will benefit your health.
- Quinoa. This nutritious seed is high in carbs and, in addition to lowering your blood sugar levels, can help you lose weight faster.
- Buckwheat. Buckwheat is a great source of protein and fiber and is particularly beneficial for heart health.
- Barley. It’s a great appetite suppressant that is associated with many health benefits, like lowered cholesterol and decreased blood sugars.
- Chocolate milk. This delicious mix of good carbs and protein can help you build muscle and serves as a perfect sports drink.