DR. WALKER

LOW-CARB DIET/ HIGH-FAT DIET

A low-carb, high-fat diet limits carbohydrates and emphasizes high protein and fat foods. It involves a person reducing the number of carbohydrates they consume and replacing them with healthful fats. Many types of low-carb, high-fat diets exist. Each diet has varying restrictions on the types and amounts of carbohydrates you can eat.

A low-carb, high fat (LCHF) diet is generally used for weight loss, while some may have health benefits beyond weight loss, such as reducing your risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. This is because the body uses ketones from the fat for energy instead of glucose, forcing the body to use fat stores as fuel, leading to weight loss. To receive the most significant health benefit, eat various LCHF foods.

Eating a high protein and fat diet makes you feel full faster than consuming carbohydrates and straightforward sugars. Therefore, the LCHF diet restricts the number of carbohydrates you eat. As well as weight loss, some research studies support the use of LCHF diets to help certain medical conditions such as; type 2 diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Benefits of Low-Carb/High Fat Diet

Weight loss – Most people can lose weight by restricting calories and increasing physical activity. Low-carb diets, especially very low-carb diets, may lead to more significant short-term weight loss than low-fat diets.

Other benefits – Normalizes bowel movements, helps maintain bowel health, lowers cholesterol levels, helps control blood sugar levels, aids in achieving a healthy weight, and helps you live longer. In addition, low-carb diets that emphasize healthy carbs, fat, and protein sources may help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Finally, almost any diet that helps you shed excess weight may improve blood sugar and cholesterol levels, this one is no exception.

Sources of LCHF diets include: Grain products, fruits, vegetables, beans, peas, and other legumes, coconut oil, olive oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds

Takeaway

In the short term, the LCHF diet may help a person lose weight and provide some other health benefits, although there is little research on the long-term health effects of LCHF diets. However, individuals are advised to consult their healthcare personnel before starting LCHF diets.

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/fiber/art-20043983
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/in-depth/low-carb-diet/art-20045831#:~:text=Low%2Dcarb%20diets%20that%20emphasize,cholesterol%20levels%2C%20at%20least%20temporarily