Advice To My Younger Self: Low Carbs
When I say low carbs I’m meaning follow a low-carb diet.
Low-carb diets have been studied extensively and are associated with several health benefits. Here are some of the proven advantages:
- Reduced Appetite: One of the main benefits of low-carb eating is that it leads to an automatic reduction in appetite. Studies consistently show that when people cut carbs and eat more protein and fat, they end up consuming fewer calories. I notice this myself when I follow a low-carb diet. I’m pretty sure sugars and carbohydrates are addictive. The more that you have the more that you want.
- Initial Weight Loss: Low-carb diets are effective for weight loss, especially in the short term. People on low-carb diets tend to lose weight faster than those on low-fat diets. The initial weight loss is partly due to the reduction of excess water from the body and lower insulin levels. I’m living proof of this, the weight drops off of me when I avoid carbohydrates. However, my big issue is willpower. What I end up doing is having a load of alcohol one night and then forgetting everything about low carb as I walk out of the local kebab shop with a large donner kebab on naan bread. Discipline is key!
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Abdominal Fat Loss: Not all fat in the body is the same. Low-carb diets are particularly effective at reducing harmful abdominal fat (visceral fat) that accumulates around organs. This reduction can lead to a lower risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Again, I tend to agree with this as when I do follow it strictly my waste circumference definitely reduces.
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Improved Lipid Profile: Low-carb diets tend to improve lipid profiles by lowering triglycerides and increasing HDL (good) cholesterol levels.
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Better Blood Sugar Control: Low-carb diets can help regulate blood sugar levels, making them beneficial for people with diabetes or insulin resistance. In fact, I read somewhere that you can even reverse type 2 diabetes by following a low-carb diet.
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Enhanced Mental Clarity: Some people experience improved cognitive performance and mental clarity when following a low-carb eating pattern.
Excellent Books On the Subject Of Low Carbs
For me changing my diet to a low-carb diet and experimenting a little with the odd day or two of fasting came after reading the excellent book by Dr Jason Fung, I can’t recommend it highly enough.
Unlock the Secrets of Weight Loss with Dr. Jason Fung’s “The Obesity Code”
- Revolutionary Approach: Discover the groundbreaking insights of Dr. Jason Fung, a leading expert in intermittent fasting and weight loss. His book, “The Obesity Code,” challenges conventional wisdom and offers a new perspective on obesity.
- Science-Backed Strategies: Learn about the crucial role of hormones in weight gain and how insulin resistance is at the heart of the problem. Dr. Fung’s research-backed approach provides a clear understanding of the underlying causes of obesity.
- Practical Guidance: Say goodbye to calorie counting and unsustainable diets. “The Obesity Code” provides five basic steps to manage your insulin levels and achieve a healthier lifestyle.
- Lasting Results: Embrace intermittent fasting as a tool to break free from the cycle of insulin resistance and reach your weight goals permanently.
His other book is also excellent too, this book has a similar message but has more of a focus on how such a diet can be followed to reverse or prevent type 2 diabetes
Dr. Jason Fung’s book, “The Diabetes Code: Prevent and Reverse Type 2 Diabetes Naturally”:
Unlock the Secrets to Reversing Type 2 Diabetes
In this paradigm-shifting book, Dr. Jason Fung challenges conventional wisdom. Contrary to popular belief, type 2 diabetes is reversible. Dr. Fung explains why relying solely on insulin or other blood-glucose-lowering drugs can exacerbate the problem, leading to weight gain and heart disease. Instead, he advocates for proper dieting and intermittent fasting as the effective path to managing type 2 diabetes. Say goodbye to the life sentence—discover the power to take control of your health naturally.
Have You Had Any Positive Results From A Low Carb Diet?
If so, please tell us your story below, perhaps with a picture and I will publish below to help motivate others who may want to follow such a diet.
Remember that individual responses to low-carb diets can vary, and it’s essential to choose a dietary approach that aligns with your health goals and preferences. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes. 🌿
