The Low-Down on Low Carbs: Surprising Side Effects

We’ve all heard the saying, “if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” That age-old wisdom certainly holds true when it comes to low-carb diets – a seemingly easy fix for those looking to lose weight quickly and start a zero waste lifestyle. Yet many don’t realize there can be uncomfortable and even serious side effects from diving into such extreme eating plans. So what should you know about low carbs before taking the plunge? Read on as we uncover the surprising side effects of a diet that cuts out so many essential nutrients – and explore practical tips for avoiding them.

Reduced Athletic Performance

Carbohydrates are a key source of fuel for active individuals. Without enough carbs to draw from, athletes may find their performance and endurance suffering – particularly when engaging in longer bouts of exercise or training. To keep your energy levels up and maintain peak performance, it’s more important to ensure you’re getting adequate complex carbohydrates like quinoa, oats, sweet potatoes, and legumes. Not only will these wholesome carbs provide sustained energy, but they’ll also supply essential dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Nutrient Deficiencies

Low-carb diets cut out many nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits and grains, making it difficult to meet your daily requirements for important nutrients like vitamin C, magnesium, and folate. To make up for what a low-carb diet lacks, be sure to include nutrient-rich foods like kale, Brussels sprouts, spirulina, and sweet potatoes. Also, consider taking a daily multivitamin or supplementing with individual nutrients as recommended by your doctor. In some cases, individuals may require a medical professional’s guidance and support to ensure that nutrient needs are being met.

Weight Gain

But the list doesn’t stop there. Did you know that there are tons of side effects you may experience once you end your low-carb diet? One of the most common and fatal is weight gain. This is because when you reduce your carbohydrate intake, your body is forced to use stored fats for energy instead of the carbohydrates it normally uses. So, in the long run, this leads to weight gain once you reintroduce carbohydrates into your diet. To avoid this issue, be sure to maintain a healthy and balanced diet even after you end your low-carb plan.

Fatigue and Irritability

Another thing to consider when embarking on a low-carb diet is the potential for fatigue and irritability once you end your low-carb diet. When your body isn’t getting enough carbohydrates, it can lead to increased fatigue and even lightheadedness due to low blood sugar levels. To keep your energy levels in check while following a low-carb lifestyle, be sure to get adequate sleep each night and include nutrient-dense foods in your daily diet. Simply adding a few extra carbs to your daily menu can help prevent these symptoms.

By understanding the potential side effects of a low-carb diet, you can take steps to ensure that you are still getting all the essential nutrients needed for good health while following this plan. Be sure to talk with your doctor or nutritionist before beginning any type of restrictive eating plan. And if you do decide to give a low-carb diet a try, don’t forget to check in with yourself regularly and adjust your eating plan accordingly – because our bodies are always changing.