A low carb diet plan is an eating pattern that reduces the amount of carbohydrates you consume and typically increases your intake of protein and healthy fats. The goal is to help you feel full and satisfied, so you eat less overall, which can lead to weight loss.

There are many different low carb diet plans, including popular ones like Atkins and Ketogenic diets. Each has its own set of rules and guidelines. But, in general, you should aim to consume fewer carbohydrates and more protein, healthy fats and fiber. You may also want to consult with a registered dietitian before significantly changing your diet, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or take certain medications, like insulin, sulphonylureas or glinides, that can be affected by eating low carbohydrate foods.

Carbohydrates are the body’s main source of energy. They are broken down into sugar, or glucose, and released into the bloodstream during digestion. Insulin is then released to help glucose enter the cells, where it can be used as energy. Any excess glucose is stored in the liver and muscles as glycogen, or changed to body fat for later use. A low carb diet is intended to promote the burning of glycogen and body fat for energy, which can lead to weight loss.

Some people who follow a low carb diet experience side effects like nausea, fatigue and a feeling of being unwell. However, these symptoms usually clear up as the body adjusts to a new nutrition plan. If you are following a low carb diet, it is important to get adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals. This is because you may be cutting out certain foods, like cereals, fruits and fortified grains, that are a good source of folic acid, which is essential for pregnant women and everyone else.

Aside from limiting carbohydrate intake, you should eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains to make sure you are getting enough nutrients. It is also important to avoid processed and packaged foods as they are often high in added sugar, which can cause a variety of health issues.

A healthy meal plan should consist of lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts and seeds, leafy greens, and natural fats like avocado and olive oil. A well-planned diet can be a great way to reduce hunger levels, improve your health and feel more energetic. Aside from being delicious, a low carb diet can also help prevent disease and lower your risk for obesity and heart disease. Noom helps you adopt healthy habits to lose weight and keep it off. It’s personalized to your goals and fitness needs, so you can reach success faster. Start your free trial today!