Low carbohydrates diet for weight loss and why it's more effective than other diets for this purpose

A low carbohydrates diet or low glycemic diet is based on trying to maintain a low level of glucose in the blood, which by the way helps to keep insulin levels low too but not so that may harm the body. The metabolic changes produced with these type of diet helps the body to lose weight. Let's explain how it happens.

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas. This hormone is generally released to the bloodstream when glucose is available there too. The role of insulin is to transport that glucose to the cells so that they can produce energy from it. But what happens if the body doesn't have enough glucose available?

Well, insulin is not only promoted by glucose, there are other molecules which may trigger its production, molecules such as:

+ Aminoacids arginine and lysine.

+ Gastrointestinal hormones:

- Gastrin.

- Secretin.

- Cholecystokinin (CCK) (a powerful appetite suppresant).

- Gastric inhibitory polypeptide.

If glucose and aminoacids produce a sinergistic effect, they can double the release of insulin.

Fats and proteins are also sources of energy, when used in higher amounts in a diet that is low in carbs, the effect is that this molecules can stay longer in the stomach, prolonging the sensation of satiation.

Cholecystokinin (CCK) is stimulated by the consumption of fat and protein and when carbs are low. As I said before, this gastrointestinal hormone is an appetite suppressor which will help the person to eat less.

Also, the low glycemic nature of a low carbohydrates diet may avoid people from taking "snacks" because it may prevent to have that feeling of "ups and downs" of the glucose levels.

By the way, it has been researched that proteins alone have a greater effect on decreasing appetite than carbohydrates, mediated maybe by a substance called leptin, produced by the addipose tissue.

When leptin is on the circulation, the appetite somehow is lower. Though, some obese persons seem to be resistant to leptin, being maybe a reason to continue wanting for more food.

A diet that is higher in proteins and fats and low in carbs may contribute to weight loss and to lower the abdominal fat because as the organism is unable to use glucose as a primary source of energy so instead, the body uses the fats and keeps the proteins untouched.

The responsibles for weight loss are the following occurring actions:

+ Body fat is reduced.

+ Muscle mass is not depleted for energy purposes.

+ The appetite is reduced.

+ The metabolism gets activated.

+ There's a reduction in the consumption of calories.

+ Decrease of insulin resistance and inflammation.

+ Lower blood pressure.

So, in conclusion, a low carbohydrates diet well supervised by a professional with the aid of exercise (preferably aerobic), may result in weight loss and overall health.

Learn more about the mechanisms of any low carbohydrates diet to improve weight and health

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