As a weight loss strategy, cutting carbs (whilst also reducing the number of calories you consume) clearly works. If it didn’t Atkins would have never been popular in the first place.
But……….
CARB REDUCTION COSTS US!
We all require a certain level of carbohydrate to function at our best over the long term.
Of cource you can cut carbs temporarily to lose weight quickly, but what happens when you add them back in?
Also if you keep carbs too low for too long it can have consequences. This is especially true if you workout.
People who are more sedentary have a lower carbohydrate requirement which means they maybe able to get by with more carb restriction (this doesn’t mean it is the right thing for them to do though!)
If you exercise regularly, restricting your carbohydrate intake can lead to.
– Decreased thyroid output
– Increased cortisol output (the stress hormone)
– Impaired mood and cognitive function
– Breakdown of muscle (this the opposite of what you want, as this will lead to a slower metabolism!)
The most frustrating thing of all, is that you probably won’t lose that much FAT either. Any weight loss is likely to be stored water and glycogen (stored carbohydrate).
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Don’t think about the outcome, think about the process. You want to build a faster metabolism that will lead to you burning more calories and losing fat. By focusing on losing weight, you don’t specifiy how you are going to achieve this, which means any success you have is likely to be by luck and it won’t guarantee that the weight loss you achieve is sustainable.
If your goal is to lose FAT and build a faster metabolism, don’t go to extremes. Start by following these simple steps to make steady progress towards your goal.
1. DON’T OVERLY RESTRICT YOURSELF
Carbs aren’t the enemy. Distinguish between “bad carbs” (processed, sugary foods) and good carbs.
2. ENJOY WHOLEGRAINS
Enjoy good carbs in moderation such as whole grains, fruit and vegetables.
3. EAT MORE HEALTHY FATS
Not all fats are bad for you. Enjoy healthy fats such as those found in olive oil, avocado’s, nuts and seeds etc.
REMEMBER CARBS ARE YOUR FRIEND, AND SHOULD FORM PART OF A HEALTHY, BALANCED APPROACH TO FAT LOSS.
NOT SURE WHERE TO BEGIN WITH YOUR FAT LOSS GOALS?
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