Why Read the Low-Carb Diet Book Before Starting?


Some people when they want to do low-carbing, they wing it, without reading any books. That's a problem because so many myths abound. For instance, some people think we only eat meat. Others think we have some veggies, but are never allowed fruit or grains. Worse yet, some people think all we eat is bacon, eggs, cheese, steak and more steak! However, when we are eating a balanced low-carb diet, we're eating adequate protein for our particular body (not too much otherwise it converts back into glucose anyway through a process called gluconeogenesis), and plenty of salads and vegetables. In fact, most low-carbers eat more vegetables than non low-carbers, because that is where the majority of our carbs come from or should come from. One learns to really relish and love them and I mean really love them! Many people become adventurous and try all sorts of different veggies for the very first time.

In addition, as we progress past the first two weeks of induction, most of us can climb the carb ladder gradually to about 40 to 60 grams a day and still lose (If I'm doing intermittent fasting, I don't need to count carbs and have at least 60 grams a day - I have done some posts on that way of eating which combines really favorably with low-carb eating.). Fruit and grains do get added back in, but not in great quantities as the carbs quickly add up. Desserts and treats, nice as they are, should be occasional or kept only for the weekends - something to look forward to, but not to have on a daily basis while actively trying to lose weight. They can be kept in the freezer for an emergency if one needs something. However, making a quick dessert in the microwave like a 3-min chocolate cake with or without frosting can hit the spot.

Yogurt is something I really enjoy and I like to add a few frozen blueberries as they offer so much in anti-oxidants and other nutrients. 1 cup of plain yogurt is 4 grams of carbs. Do a search on yogurt on my blog and you will see why.

The very best thing to do before starting a low-carb diet is to read the book or books and find one that you like and stick with it. Read the book periodically to make sure you're doing it correctly. Keep a daily food journal with your weight plugged in at least weekly for motivation. Do your diet quietly and don't tell too many people as many will try to dissuade you or derail you for various reasons. Lose weight quietly and your success will speak for itself. When they ask and really want to know the truth, then you can share your secret. :-)

It's a healthy way to live for many of us who suffer from hyperinsulinism (body pours out too much insulin upon eating carbohydrates), as the diet does an end run on insulin output very effectively and thus curbs hunger and reduces fat storage.

All the best and happy low-carbing!