What Happens If You Don't Eat Enough Carbohydrates?

Carbohydrate deficiencies can have negative effects on your health.

Carbohydrates, in the form of root vegetables and grains, are the predominant source of energy for people across the world. Given that glucose from carbohydrates is used by the body as a preferred source of energy, a carbohydrate deficiency can be problematic for an individual.

Significance

When a person is deficient in carbohydrates, the body resorts to using protein as an energy source. According to the Side Road website, the extreme breakdown of proteins into sugars can cause ketosis (products of fatty acid metabolism), a physiological state which can lead to many health problems.

Considerations

Brain power is dependent upon glucose. The Franklin Institute website states that glucose is the only fuel used by the brain cells to energize and motivate the individual. Consequently, a carbohydrate deficiency will cut off the brain's main source of fuel, causing delayed mental activity and fatigue.

Warning

The Side Road website cites abnormal fat metabolism as a symptom of carbohydrate deficiency. A limited carbohydrate intake can cause malnutrition or excessive consumption of fats to make up for the lack of calories.

References

• The Franklin Institute: The Human Brain
• Side Road: Dangers of a Low Carb Diet