Low carbohydrate

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

A Low Carbohydrate Diet, often abbreviated as low carb, refers to dietary regimens that limit or reduce the intake of carbohydrates in favor of higher protein and/or fat consumption.

Kale & Poached Eggs Salad
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Broccoli in Cafe
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Jalapeno poppers
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Chef Cooking Demonstration May 2015

Definition[edit | edit source]

At its core, a low carbohydrate diet is any nutritional plan that reduces carbohydrate consumption relative to the typical modern diet, while often emphasizing proteins, fats, and healthy vegetables. It's essential to note that there's no universally agreed upon threshold for what defines "low carbohydrate."

Historical Overview[edit | edit source]

Low carbohydrate diets have been present in various cultures and health practices for centuries, with more recent popularized versions emerging in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

Types of Low Carbohydrate Diets[edit | edit source]

Various forms and gradations of low carb diets exist, each with specific guidelines on carbohydrate intake and food sources. Some of the more well-known variants include:

Benefits[edit | edit source]

Many proponents of low carbohydrate diets argue that these diets can offer multiple health benefits, such as:

  • Weight loss
  • Improved blood sugar control
  • Enhanced mental clarity and energy
  • Reduced inflammation

However, these benefits can vary depending on the individual and the specific type of low carbohydrate diet chosen.

Criticism and Controversies[edit | edit source]

While many swear by the benefits of a low carb approach, critics argue that:

  • Such diets might exclude essential nutrients found in carb-rich foods.
  • There could be potential long-term health risks.
  • Not all carbs are "bad," and generalizing might lead to unhealthy food choices.

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

Like any diet, the efficacy and safety of a low carbohydrate diet depend on its execution and the individual's unique health needs and goals. Consulting with a nutritionist or healthcare professional is always recommended before making significant dietary changes.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Diets
Dieting Diet - Cuisine - Dietitian - Hunger - Leptin - Meal - Nutrition - Obesity : Staple food
Types Ketogenic diet - Low carbohydrate diet - Weight loss diet
  By food ingredients Omnivore - Entomophagy - Pescetarian - Plant-based
Regional diets Western - Mediterranean - Sustainable diets - Low carbon - Planetary
Religious diets Buddhist - Christian - Hindu - Islamic - Jain - Jewish - Rastafari - Sikh
 Vegetarianism and veganism   Dried fruit - Fruitarianism - Meat analogue - Milk substitute - Raw vegan - Tofu - Semi-vegetarianism
Supplement diets Bodybuilding supplements  - Meal replacement - Therapeutic food - Non-solid diets - Liquid diets - Very-low-calorie diet
Misc.topics Food pyramid - Fruits & Veggies – More Matters - Healthy eating pyramid - Latin American Diet Pyramid - French paradox - Mediterranean Diet Pyramid - MyPlate - MyPyramid - Vegetarian Diet Pyramid


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD