Whether you are looking to lose weight or simply want to improve your health, a low carb diet can be a great way to achieve your goals. However, it’s important to know that while a low carb diet can help you lose weight, it can also increase your risk of certain cancers and heart disease.
Increased risk of heart disease
Whether or not a low carbohydrate diet is safe and healthy to follow is an ongoing debate. However, new research has found that a low carb diet does have a positive effect on some of your cardiovascular risk factors. Moreover, it may even lower blood pressure.
In a recent study, researchers assessed whether low carbohydrate diets are associated with cardiovascular risk factors, such as cholesterol and blood pressure, as well as cause-specific death. They looked at data from 24,825 individuals with a mean age of 47.6 years.
They used a randomized, controlled trial method to determine whether low carbohydrate diets increased cardiovascular risk factors. They divided study participants into two groups: the low carbohydrate intake group and the moderate carbohydrate intake group. They reported their daily food intake and weight. Compared to the low carbohydrate intake group, the moderate carbohydrate intake group had higher intakes of dietary fiber and fat. However, they did not have higher levels of saturated fat.
Increased risk of certain cancers
Using data from over 24,825 subjects, Dr. Banach and his colleagues analyzed the effects of a low-carb diet on an individual’s mortality. They found that a low-carb diet had a negative impact on both all-cause and cause-specific mortality. This was accompanied by a good quality of life. Those on a low-carb diet were found to have lower levels of cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose levels, but higher rates of premature death.
Those on a low-carbohydrate diet were also more likely to die from cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, and cancer. It is possible that the increased risk of cancer may be a result of the effects of low-carbohydrate diets on heart and vascular health. Regardless, low-carb diets should not be recommended.
Several studies have investigated the relationship between food and cancer. A recent study found that fiber-rich foods had a positive effect on colorectal cancer risk. Several other studies have shown that animal protein may increase the risk of certain cancers.
Weight loss
Whether you are just looking to lose a few pounds, or you’re dealing with metabolic issues, a low carb diet can help you. However, this type of diet may not be right for everyone. You should talk to your doctor before making any significant changes.
A low carb diet is a diet that restricts carbohydrate intake. Carbohydrates are fuels for the body, so you may need to cut down on them to reduce hunger.
The optimum carb intake for you will vary based on your metabolic state and activity level. Some people find moderate carb intake beneficial for weight loss and maintenance. You may need to be conscious of portion sizes as well.
Low carb diets burn stored fat and help you lose weight. However, you should keep in mind that you may have to cut back on some of the foods you love.
A study in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that low carb diets resulted in more weight loss than low-fat diets. In fact, low carb dieters lost 7.6 kilograms more than the low-fat group.
Side effects
Regardless of the diet you are trying to follow, there are side effects to watch out for. Fortunately, many of the side effects can be avoided or lessened. You should also consult with a qualified health care professional before starting a low carb diet.
One common side effect of a low carb diet is constipation. You can increase your water intake to help alleviate constipation. You can also eat more fiber-rich foods to help keep constipation at bay.
Another common side effect of a low carb diet includes a lack of energy. The brain needs the right kind of carbohydrates for energy, and a low carb diet may not provide enough to keep you alert. If you are not used to a low-carb diet, it can take time for your body to adjust. Having more frequent meals will also help provide a steady stream of energy and nutrients.
Another side effect of a low carb diet is an increased risk of kidney disease. A diet that is low in whole grains and low in fat dairy products is more likely to lead to kidney disease.