by Joel Tadeo

Created on: October 13, 2010   Last Updated: October 16, 2010

Low Carb diet is a safe and effective way to lose weight and improve health. A right diet should be carefully chosen to meet the recommended nutrients sufficient to maintain a healthy body. A low carb diet is commonly used for the purpose of treating obesity or weight control. Foods high in carbohydrates raised blood sugar and insulin level which lead to weight gain. Carbohydrate is also needed by the body to produce energy. 

It has been proven that a low-carb diet helps in treating people suffering from diabetes and high blood pressure. Research also proves that people under this diet are likely to have improved moods, lower symptoms of depression, Weight loss, especially belly fat, Cancer prevention, Uterine fibroids, Appetite control, Cavities, less sugar equals less cavities and enhanced concentration.

 Despite of the advantages sited, low-carb diet also has its disadvantages. One of this is your body being in ketosis, this is the process of your body switching from using carbohydrates to using fats for energy. This can result in bad breath, weakness, nausea, dizziness, and insomnia. Another side effect is constipation, due to lack of high-fiber foods. There are also a high risk of heart disease, a chance of osteoporosis, colon cancer, kidney problems and premature aging which are considered a long term side effects of a low-carb diet.

 Athletes are not encouraged to engage in low-carb diet. Carbohydrate is the main fuel that the muscles and the brain use for energy. Diets low in carbohydrates can cause muscle weakness, confusion, dizziness, tiredness, and dehydration-making physical activity less enjoyable. Individuals who participate in endurance activities should not consume low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets. Persons who already have poor kidney function, are not recommended to use this diet.

 Constipation as enumerated a while ago, is a common problem for people following low-carb, high-protein diets. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are relevant sources of fiber that help maintain regular bowel function. This diet is not recommended for individuals with chronic gastrointestinal (GI) diseases such as Crohn's, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or diverticulitis. Persons with GI diseases need dietary fiber to maintain regular bowel function and to prevent flare ups.

 Highly restrictive low-carbohydrate diets, such Atkins diet and the first phase of the South Beach diet, are not suitable during pregnancy and lactation or in childhood or the pre-teen or teen years. During these stages of life, growth is very fast and the body requires calories and several nutrients, such as calcium, folate, and vitamin A, to promote optimal development. Avoiding calories and these nutrients could lead to poor growth during these vital years. These diets may delay the production of breast milk during lactation. The diets also lack dietary fiber which could contribute to constipation, a common problem during pregnancy.

Finally, sudden cardiac arrest has also been reported among a few individuals on these diets. Consult your doctor or a dietitian before considering a low-carbohydrate (high-protein) diet.

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