Is a Low Carb Diet Safe for Women?

There are a ton of trendy diets out there, and many of them involve cutting carbs. But is a low carb diet safe? And in particular, is it safe for women to cut carbs? Let’s see…

The Benefits of Cutting Carbs

It’s hard to dispute that cutting carbs definitely has its benefits. For example:

• Cutting carbs shows quick weight-loss results–It’s a great way to shed that first 10 pounds fast.
• Sharpen insulin sensitivity– Help your body become more effective at using insulin to reduce rising blood glucose levels.
• Appetite reduction–By focusing on higher protein foods as opposed to carbs, cravings may subside and you will feel full longer.

Of course, that all sounds well and good…but it almost sounds too good to be true. There has to be a downside, right? Is a low carb diet safe?

The Dark Side of Carb Cutting

The main issue people often have with carb cutting is they overdo it. When you cut out almost all carbs in your diet, combine that with intense cardio, and cut calories dramatically–well, your body is going to be pissed at you. Results can include:

• An overall feeling of fatigue
• Overworked liver
• Reduced insulin sensitivity
• Irregular menstruation
• Disrupted sleep
• Off leptin signaling

Not an all-inclusive list by any means, but a bit scary all the same. And let’s not forget, if you are looking to lift weights and get stronger, cutting your carbs wont give you the energy you need to progress.

Who Should Be Especially Concerned About Low Carb Diets?

Some women are more susceptible than others to the negatives associated with low carb diets. We suggest you avoid low carb diets if you already suffer from:

• Menstrual irregularity
• Low-thyroid issues
• Mental health issues
• Sleep disorders
• Liver issues

Is a Low Carb Diet Safe? As Usual, Moderation is Key

While you may want to adjust carb-intake levels depending on your personal goals, it’s not the best idea to cut them out altogether. On the other hand, a diet high in simple carbohydrates will undoubtedly cause weight gain and other negative consequences. That said, we suggest that you eat a moderate level of complex carbs.

Not exactly sure what that means? Check out this handy calculator to help you out! It allows you to input your curent weight, as well of your goals, and spits out exactly how much carbs, fat, and protein you need to shoot for each day.

Carb questions? Shoot us a comment below!