A low-carb diet has become really popular these days, especially if you’ve just moved to a warm place like Phoenix and are thinking about poolside outfits and summer clothes. The Harvard School of Public Health points out that a low-carb diet can help you lose weight faster than a low-fat diet and keep that weight off more easily. But, going low-carb isn’t just about cutting out bread and sweets. There are some common mistakes people make on this diet that you’ll want to avoid for better success.
**Relying on Packaged Foods Marketed as ‘Low-Carb’**
Be cautious with processed low-carb foods. Many of them contain artificial ingredients that are just as bad, if not worse than regular ones, such as malitol. Malitol is found in things like low-carb meal replacement bars and ice cream, and it can affect your blood sugar negatively. So, it’s best to steer clear of these ingredients.
**Overeating Other Foods**
Just because you’re eating fewer carbs doesn’t mean you can overeat other foods like cheese and meat. These foods are high in calories and can lead to weight gain if you’re not careful. Even if you’re sticking to low-carb, moderation is important. Make sure you’re eating the right amounts of all nutrients and listen to your body’s hunger signals. Eat slowly so you can stop before you get too full.
**Avoiding Carbs Altogether**
Don’t completely cut out carbs. Your body needs them, just like a car needs gas. Carbs fuel your brain, and without enough, you’ll feel irritable, sluggish, and even have trouble thinking clearly. Not getting enough carbs can also make cravings harder to resist, leading to binge-eating, like ordering and devouring a whole pizza.
**Not Having a Plan**
Planning is key when starting a low-carb diet. Without a plan, you might get so hungry that you end up eating the foods you’re trying to avoid. Try to plan your meals for the week or at least a day ahead. Make a shopping list with all the ingredients you need to stick to your plan. Having low-carb snacks ready for when you’re short on time can also help you stay on track.