Keto VS LOW CARBS AND SIDE EFFECTS OF LOW CARBS
When it comes to dieting we’ve heard it all. So many approaches have been used to shed that extra fat or to just get in shape for summertime, or even a special occasion. Two of the most recommended diets include low carb diet vs keto.
I personally believe any controlled macros diet will work for you, whether it is a low carbs diet, a ketogenic diet, or whatever else you decide to follow, the issue is to realize when you’ve crossed the line, your body speaks to you in so many different ways, you just have to listen.
Here are some side effects that indicate that you’ve crossed the line with your diet:
- Bad breath
- Headache
- Fatigue and weakness
- Constipation or diarrhea
Low carbs diet stresses your body at first. When you start a low carb diet your body starts looking for sugar to use as energy. Now without getting sugar from food, your blood sugar level decreases and it increases your cortisol level. Cortisol is a hormone released by your adrenal glands to insure you have enough energy to survive.
The cortisol starts a process called gluconeogenesis. It’s like a magic trick that the body uses to convert protein and fat into sugar. Eventually, your body adapts by burning fat for fuel instead of protein or sugar, “assuming you’re limiting both carbs and protein intake”. However, this process is not automated, so your body can take a couple of days or maybe 1-2 weeks before it converts. Before that happens, you’ll feel horrible, ranging from fatigue to weakness, to stress. Once this process is complete, your body is in a ketosis state. It’s your body’s way of preserving muscle mass and glycogen during times of carbohydrate and/or protein restriction.
Stomach Issues on a Low Carb Diet
Fiber is always overlooked on low carbs diets because we focus on all the fat and protein we can eat. When you eat meat and small amounts of vegetables, you are likely to create digestive issues for yourself.
Eating less fiber will create significant changes in your gut bacteria that will cause inflammation, constipation, and/or diarrhea.
A Low carbs diet acts as a diuretic in so many ways by increasing the excretion of fluids and minerals that your body needs, like potassium, that actually is the main reason for your fatigue when you’re on a low carbs diet.
Click here for our Keto diet and exercise guide