Here's why low-carb diets can be harmful to your body

Darielle Britto | Mar 7, 2019, 14:49 IST
If you are struggling to lose weight and think the solution is to follow a low carb diet, there are a few things you should be aware of first.

Low carb diets have become a popular trend many people across the globe follow to lose weight quickly. Many influencers and celebrities endorse the diet. However, it can lead to eating disorders for many. It could also cause health complications.While eating foods that are rich and processed isn't the way to go when you are trying to lead a healthy lifestyle, cutting out carbohydrates isn't the answer either.

Consuming carbohydrates in moderation can help you lose weight and keep you full for longer. It can also increase your energy levels when you workout.Following a diet that is low in carbs can cause issues and hamper your weight loss goals. Here are some of the side-effects of low carb diets you need to be aware of

1. Fatigue: Carbohydrates help fuel the body to keep it going. In order to generate energy, the body burns carbs. However, if there isn't a sufficient amount of it,it can cause you to feel sluggish and tired. You could also experience headaches. If you suffer from light-headedness often, you may be low on carbs.

2. Constipation:Carbohydrates that are good for you is essential to improve digestion. When it is in the form of fibre, your body digests it slowly as food for good bacteria. When you don't have enough it disrupts the balance of gut flora. This could lead to constipation. You could also suffer from bloating and diarrhoea.

3.Hunger Pangs: The most important nutrient to keep you full is carbs. It also helps to stabilise your blood sugar levels. Not having enough of it could cause you to experience hunger pangs often.

4. Mood swings: When you are hungry, you could start to feel anxiety and mood swings. This is because you have a deficiency of glucose.

5.Diabetes: Diets low in carbohydrates could decrease your body's response to insulin - a hormone that helps to control blood sugar levels. This could put you at risk of type 2 diabetes.

Always consult with a specialist before you make any changes to your diet.
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