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Low-carb lies

Men's Fitness, April, 2005 by Jeff Volek

Q: I cut carbs out of my diet and have been losing fat faster than ever. But a dietitian told me it's dangerous, saying that it causes ketosis. What should I do?

A: Most dietitians are not well-educated when it comes to ketosis, so politely suggest that they read the current literature. Here are the facts: When you restrict carbohydrates to low levels, your body starts to produce substances called ketones. The presence of ketones in a healthy person on a low-carb diet--known as "ketosis"--basically means you're breaking down fat rapidly for energy. Nearly every cell in your body can use ketones as energy, and there's no scientific evidence that ketone levels achieved while on a low-carb diet are dangerous. In fact, experts argue that they may be the perfect fuel, especially for dieters. Ketones suppress appetite and spare the breakdown of protein for energy, preventing the loss of valuable muscle. That helps ensure your weight loss is pure fat. And don't believe it if you hear that your brain will suffer if you restrict carbs. New evidence from the NIH suggests that both your brain and heart may function even better while your body is in ketosis.

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Jeff Volek has published more than 100 scientific studies on exercise, diet, and supplements.

Low-carb lies

Men's Fitness, April, 2005 by Jeff Volek

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