Many people are starting to take interest in low carb diets. Basically, almost everywhere you go someone is on a low carb diet and states that they are having amazing results because of it. They feel that if you want to lose weight, this is the diet to do it on. But, what makes a low carb diet so special? And, will it really help you? Here’s what you need to know.

Hunger Control

The very first aspect of low carb diets that most people find very attractive is the fact that they really help to control hunger. Since carbohydrates are what release insulin and cause blood sugar highs and lows, when you take carbs lower, you don’t experience this. As such, it’s normal to find hunger completely absent, which makes taking in a lower calorie intake that much easier.

Limited Food Selection

One drawback to the low carb diet however is the reduced food selection. Since you’re virtually cutting out whole grains and anything higher than 5-10 grams of carbs per serving (depending on just how low carb you’re taking this diet), you may become bored. You probably don’t need me to tell you that when you’re bored on a diet, the chances of you sticking with it are that much lower.

Potential For Nutrient Deficiency

Due to this limited food selection, another issue you may come across is the fact that you’re at risk for nutrient deficiency. Fruits and vegetables supply a very high number of important nutrients we need to take in, so when you’re limiting these foods it’s normal to see problems develop. If you are going to use a lower carb diet and not eat them, be absolutely sure you’re on a good multivitamin. Most lower carbohydrate plans won’t require you to eliminate vegetables, but fruits are questionable.

Exercise Performance Limitations

Finally, the last issue with these diets is that they can limit your exercise performance over time. Since intense exercise can only use glucose as fuel and you won’t be taking in any glucose through the diet, this can reduce the intensity you are able to work at. If you’re only doing moderate intensity exercises anyway this may not be an issue, but if you’re doing regular weight lifting sessions, you could run into some problems.

So keep these points in mind. Low carb diets can work but they are not for everyone.