Table of contents:
- What happens if the body lacks carbohydrates?
- 1. Weight loss
- 2. Susceptible to flu
- 3. Prone to heart disease and diabetes
- 4. Causes the body to become tired, weak and lethargic
- 5. Susceptible to depression
- Is it okay to go on a carbohydrate diet?
Are you currently on a carbohydrate diet? A carbohydrate diet is a diet that reduces carbohydrate intake or avoids foods that are high in carbohydrates in order to lose weight. However, did you know that a lack of carbohydrates is very bad for the body? Look again at your diet after reading this article.
What happens if the body lacks carbohydrates?
Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy. If carbohydrate intake is reduced suddenly and drastically, various side effects such as fatigue, headache, bad breath, constipation, or diarrhea may be experienced.
In addition, in the long term, a carbohydrate diet can cause the body to lack fiber, vitamins or minerals, cause bone loss, and increase digestive disorders, as well as the risk of various chronic diseases. A carbohydrate diet is also not recommended for pregnant women because it is not safe for the unborn baby. Here are 5 things that will happen if you are low on carbs.
1. Weight loss
Because carbohydrates are the main source of energy, it is certain that if you are low on carbohydrates you will lose weight. In addition, the body will lack fluids.
2. Susceptible to flu
Lack of carbohydrates causes your immune system to be weak. Weak immune system will make you susceptible to flu. The body will also experience weakness, dry mouth, nausea and dizziness.
3. Prone to heart disease and diabetes
A study published in 2014 said that if the body lacks carbohydrates, it will be susceptible to various serious diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. According to the American Heart Association, lack of carbohydrates will increase cholesterol levels and trigger the risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke.
4. Causes the body to become tired, weak and lethargic
Apart from carbohydrates as the main source of energy, carbohydrates also play an active role in increasing endurance. When the body lacks carbohydrates, this can trigger a decrease in energy in the body and cause the body to quickly become tired, weak and lethargic.
5. Susceptible to depression
Carbohydrates have a role in providing nutrition to the brain. So that carbohydrates can maximize the work of the brain's performance and have an effect on making the brain calm. If the body is deficient in carbohydrates, this can lead to feelings of depression and an unsettled mind. Because carbohydrates play a role in maintaining levels of the chemical serotonin which functions to maintain emotions in the brain. If you are deficient in this compound, it will increase the risk of depression.
Is it okay to go on a carbohydrate diet?
A carbohydrate diet is safe in the short term but it is not clear if there are any long-term health risks to this diet. Replacing calories from carbohydrates by consuming large amounts of animal fat and protein can increase your risk of heart disease or certain cancers.
Instead of limiting your intake of carbohydrates, you should reduce sugary foods such as candy, chocolate, biscuits, cakes, or soft drinks with added sugar. Because if consumed frequently, foods high in calories and sugar can increase the risk of tooth decay and weight gain.
You are also advised to eat healthier sources of carbohydrates such as whole grains, potatoes, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and low-fat dairy products with nutrients that are beneficial to the body. The fiber in these foods helps keep your stomach healthy and keeps you full.
If you are considering a carbohydrate diet, consult with your doctor or nutritionist first to see if the diet is right for you or not. Don't just because of diet, your body lacks carbohydrates and endangers yourself.
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