There is a lot of skepticism about whether there are low carb diets that work. Diets such as the Atkins and the High Protein diet are just two low carb diet plans that are available today. The Atkins diet in particular is quite a popular one. But does it work? If it does how does it work and more importantly, is a low carb diet healthy?

How Low Carb Diets Work

It is known that when you eat a diet low in carbohydrates, it reduces the amount of insulin produced by the body. This leads to muscle and fat being used as the main energy source. Therefore the aim of the diet is to force our bodies into using up fat to produce energy. As parts of the body cannot use fat as an energy source, the body begins to produce ketone bodies that fuel those parts that need it.

The downside to this is that you will experience bad breath as well as side effects such as nausea and fatigue. You will also have to give up foods such as pasta, rice, bread and alcohol.

Does a Low Carb Diet Work?

Most low carb diets will actually work. The main reason why people stick to this type of diet is because it gives you quick results. You will notice that many celebrities stick to low carb diets and they swear by them. However, whilst it does provide great results it is not healthy in the long term.

Ideally you should only use a low carb diet on a short term basis. Perhaps you need to lose weight for a special occasion? If you need to drop a dress size in a couple of weeks then this is definitely the diet for you. On a long term basis however the lack of carbohydrates also forces the body to use up muscle tissue as well as fat. In fact, most of the weight loss comes from water loss and muscle loss; not fat loss!

Overall a low carb diet will work but it is certainly not healthy for long periods of time and your overall health and fitness might even suffer in time. Most low carb diets that work will offer you fast, effective results.