Facebook Pixel
Q: 

No Carb Diet, are they worth it?

By November 23, 2008 - 12:29pm
 
Rate This

I tend to eat right most of the time and was trying to rid myself of some body fat. I am not over weight but just wanted a little more muscular look. I recognize that the no carb diets are pretty popular but I am one who loves her noodles and potatoes.

Are no carb diets really necessary to cut down on body fat? I am physically active and workout daily. Is this going to cut down on my energy level since carbs create energy in the body?

Add a Comment2 Comments

The problem with "no-something" diets is that they have to have "high-something" to try to balance out. As already mentioned, you need good carbs, good fats and good proteins in your diet.

The best way to reduce your body fat is through exercise, while maintaining a healthy eating regimen.

November 24, 2008 - 6:08pm

You're right: completely eliminating carbohydrates from your diet, when it should be 30% of a balanced diet, would indeed rob your body of necessary energy.

If you are worried about your carbohydrate intake, an important gauge is to look at the types of carbs you are consuming, and opt for the "complex carbs" that have more "bang for the buck" (meaning, more nutrients and they fill you up and taste good!). You are a lover of noodles and potatoes-- have you tried simply eating the whole grain noodles (they have some that look white but have whole grains; they aren't as gritty and chewy as the brown whole grain version). You can also try to substitute sweet potatoes instead of baking potatoes, for added variety and nutrients.

Carbs are good for you, just limit the "refined" carbs (over-processed sugars, baked goods, chips, etc).

Do you think you can opt for complex carbohydrates (instead of the "simple carbs"), rather than avoiding carbs all together?

Someone may also be able to speak to the glycemic index, another indicator of sugar content in carbs (and other foods).

remember: eating for health and well-being for the long-term lifestyle is eating that is satisfying, joyful, flexible, adventurous, pleasing, balanced, varied, healthy and is not restrictive or limiting.

November 23, 2008 - 9:15pm
Image CAPTCHA
Enter the characters shown in the image.
By submitting this form, you agree to EmpowHER's terms of service and privacy policy
Add a Comment

All user-generated information on this site is the opinion of its author only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. Members and guests are responsible for their own posts and the potential consequences of those posts detailed in our Terms of Service.

Obesity

Get Email Updates

Health Newsletter

Receive the latest and greatest in women's health and wellness from EmpowHER - for free!