Low-Carb Diet Facts
When low-carb diets first came into the public spotlight, many people were unsure of what the phrase meant and that confusion still exists today. This diet, popular among Hollywood stars and celebrities, essentially depends on eating more protein and reducing the amount of carbohydrates.
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Types
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There are two types of carbs: simple carbs, which are also known as sugars, and complex carbs. Sugar carbs are found in foods like candy and soda, while complex carbs are found in vegetables and grains; both of these are limited in a low-carb diet.
Effectiveness
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The effectiveness of a low-carb diet depends on the individual; there are some who lose a significant amount of weight, while others gain weight. The American Diabetes Association recommended in 2008 that diabetics could lose weight and better control their diabetes while using a low-carb diet.
Calories
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A low-carb diet requires that only 15 to 20 percent of the daily caloric intake come from carbs. This is enough to fuel the body, but prevents the body from storing the calories and turning them into fat.
Unusual Cutbacks
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Foods such as liver, oysters, lunch meat and sausage contain large amounts of carbs. Some on the diet don't realize that they need to cutback on these foods as well.
Problems
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When a person eats a diet low in carbs, she may overcompensate by eating more protein and fat to feel full. This can result in the person actually gaining weight.
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