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Author: Carol Palmatier

Info on Diets

Low Carb Diets and Weight Loss

Low carb, high protein diets like the Atkins plan and others offer a fast and generally easy way to lose weight. But before you start, be aware of some of the reported health problems with extremely low carb diet plans.

Most low carb diets begin with a short period of very low carb consumption, around 15 grams a day, designed to kick the carbohydrate habit and jump start your weight loss. Carb amounts are gradually increased, until you reach your weight loss goals. Instead of carbs, dieters eat large amounts of protein and, sometimes, fats.

Health Problems with the Very Low Carb Diets

According to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, dieters on a very low carb regimen reported a range of health problems, including:

Digestive problems like constipation, irritable bowel, abdominal pain, diarrhea and cramps.
Loss of energy and difficulty concentrating.
Headaches, mood swings, depression and dizziness.
Gout and kidney stones.

Some physicians warn that a high fat, high protein diet can also increase your risk of colon cancer, high cholesterol and heart disease. So be sure that your doctor approves of the program before you start a very low carb diet.

Reducing your carb count in general, by cutting out excess sweets, white breads, desserts and packaged junk foods, will certainly help you lose weight and become healthier. A diet that contains a low to moderate amount of carbs will generally not result in any health problems. Just make sure your carbs are coming from healthful sources like fresh fruits and vegetables, instead of sugar and processed foods.

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