Studies show that low-carb diets can result in weight loss and improved health markers. All you need to do is to eat whole foods that make for a complete, nutritious, and filling diet. Get instant access to healthy low-carb and keto meal plans, fast and easy recipes, weight loss advice from medical experts, and so much more. A healthier life starts now with your free trial! What is low carb? A low-carb diet means that you eat fewer carbohydrates and a higher proportion of fat with adequate amounts of protein as well. This can also be called a low-carb, high-fat diet LCHF or a keto diet.
There is some evidence that a low-carbohydrate diet may help people lose weight more quickly than a low-fat diet 31, 32 —and may help them maintain that weight loss. The low-carb diet was most beneficial for lowering triglycerides, the main fat-carrying particle in the bloodstream, and also delivered the biggest boost in protective HDL cholesterol. If interested in trying a lower-carbohydrate diet, try to include some fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for essential vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. Research shows that a moderately low-carbohydrate diet can help the heart, as long as protein and fat selections come from healthy sources. Changes in diet and lifestyle and long-term weight gain in women and men. N Engl J Med. Low-carbohydrate-diet score and the risk of coronary heart disease in women.
A low-carb diet limits carbohydrates — such as those found in grains, starchy vegetables and fruit — and emphasizes foods high in protein and fat. Many types of low-carb diets exist. Each diet has varying restrictions on the types and amounts of carbohydrates you can eat. A low-carb diet is generally used for weight loss. Some low-carb diets may have health benefits beyond weight loss, such as reducing your risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Check with your doctor before starting any weight-loss diet, especially if you have any health conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease. A low-carb diet restricts the amount of carbohydrates you eat. Carbohydrates are grouped as simple natural lactose in milk and fructose in fruit, simple refined table sugar, complex natural whole grains or beans and complex refined white flour. In general, complex carbohydrates are digested more slowly and they have less effect on blood sugar than refined carbohydrates do. They also provide fiber.