High protein, low carb diets are all the rage at the moment, with literally hundreds of different diets promoting this as an effective approach to losing weight.

Following a high protein low carb diet is a way to drop pounds and create a leaner-appearing physique. Decreasing the quantity of carbs in your diet naturally means increasing the amount of protein you consume. Foods such as fresh vegetables, lean beef, fish and white-meat poultry should feature in a high protein low carb diet plan.
Before following any high protein low carb diet, check with your doctor to make sure it is appropriate for your health situation.

How Do High Protein Low Carb Diets Work?

By restricting carbs drastically to a mere fraction, the body goes into a different metabolic state called “ketosis”, whereby it burns its own fat for fuel. Normally the body burns carbs for fuel - this is the main source of fuel for your brain, heart, and many other organs. When the body is in ketosis, you tend to feel less hungry, and thus you're likely to eat less than you might otherwise. As a result, your body changes from a carb-burning engine into a fat-burning engine, the ultimate result being weight loss.

High Protein, Low Carb Diets

Who Can Follow Protein Low Carb Diets?

A high protein low carb diet is not for everybody and is in no way proven as the best way to lose weight. However, studies have suggested that for some people, a high protein low carb diet is an effective way to reduce fat and weight, particularly to kick start weight loss for those who are verging on obesity. High protein low carb diets may contribute to weight loss in a variety of ways, for example, it has been suggested that by reducing carbs, the brain may receive less hunger stimulating hormones, resulting in a reduced appetite.

Good High Protein Low Carb Diet Foods

Good high protein low fat foods include: lean red meat with visible fat removed, eggs, fish, chicken (eliminate skin), low fat dairy such as milk, yogurt and cottage cheese, legumes and beans such as lentils, kidney beans, peas and soy beans, soy products such as tofu and soy milk, nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews and peanuts), seeds such as pumpkin, sunflower and flax.

It is also important to cook protein sources in a healthy way to avoid adding excess fat and calories to food. Good methods include poaching, dry frying, grilling or roasting with a little olive oil.

High Protein, Low Carb Diets

A Healthy Balanced High Protein Low Carb Diet

Whereas a high protein low carb diet may reduce intake of certain foods, it is still essential to follow the principles of a healthy balanced diet, low in saturated fat and high in vitamins, minerals and fiber for optimal health and weight loss.

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