Weight Loss Using Low-Carb Diet – Points to Remember

Low carb diet is a diet that restricts carbohydrates intake, which in turn limits insulin release. Control of insulin encourages the body to burn instead of storing fat. A low carb diet has a high proportion of meat and high fibre vegetables and a small amount of carbohydrates from unprocessed foods. Here are a few facts to remember.

• Meat, fish and poultry generally contain no carbohydrates, however be aware of hidden carbohydrates in sausages, pies and cured, processed meats.

•  Vegetables contain carbohydrates, however most have a large proportion of fibres not absorbed by the body. Green vegetables are particularly high in fibre.

• While cheese and milk are protein foods, they are also carbohydrates foods and should be included with caution in a low-carb diet.

• Alcohol should be taken in moderation as high volumes of alcohol amounts to an equally high quantity of carbohydrates.

• Be mindful of caffeine in coffee, coffee, chocolate, cola and other soft drinks, pain killers and cough mixtures as they may cause the release of insulin

• Fat found in whole foods is good, try to avoid processed fatty foods as these contain trans fatty acids.

 

Reference

Barnaby K, 2005, The Low-Carb Diet Gourmet, Pan Macmillan Ltd, London