An Introduction to Low Carb Diets

The term low carb was coined in 1992 when the USDA recommended Americans to include six servings of grains and starches in their daily diet. But low carb diets dates back to 1864. There was a 'letter of corpulence', a pamphlet written by William Banting which talked about a low carb diet. It gave way to other low carb diets later of which the most popular was Atkins .

People also accepted the Scarsdale diet . In 1970's most people tried these diets to escape the haunting problems related to obesity. Scarsdale had a 14-day meal plan where as Atkins diet was an unlimited calorie intake diet in the form of fat and proteins with limited carbs.
Recent studies conducted in America by National Health Institute say one third of Americans trying to lose weight are following the low carb diet. Atkins diet and South Beach diet are very popular.

People gradually realized the importance of weight loss and health benefits. Too much of refined carbohydrates leads to overproduction of insulin. It results in fat storage. And this fat gets prominent around the middle. So, insulin produces a negative effect on our system. And in this fast-paced world, we do have a solution to this growing problem related to obesity or weight gain.

Today people need simple solutions. You don't want to spend too much time in the kitchen preparing special diet meals or shop for things that are too difficult to find. The low carb plan fits the new age perfectly.

There are two kinds of carbohydrates, simple and complex. Many refer to them as good and bad carbs.

Simple Carbs

Foods with simple or refined carbohydrates most often have a low nutrient content and a high-glycemic index. They are quick to digest and can cause blood sugar to soar, then fall dramatically within a short span of time.

In order to keep the body running more healthy and stable, health advisors recommend that these type foods be limited.

Examples of these simple carbs are white bread, potatoes, bananas, and sugary treats like cookies, candy, cupcakes and cakes, and soda beverages like popular cola products.

Complex Carbs
Foods with complex carbohydrates contain many nutrients and have a low- to moderate-glycemic index.

Higher fiber content in these foods means slower digestion, which is healthier for the body. And these foods are considered good choices by health advisors.

Examples of these complex carbs are whole grains, most fruits and vegetables. Legumes, plants of the pea or bean family, are also in this category.

The right pick

While studies like one from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in 2004 show that low-carb diets can help with weight loss, the carbs need to be of the complex, low-glycemic type.

However, it is not necessary to avoid the simple carbs fully. A treat now and then, in moderation should be fine.

As a side note, your teeth will also be healthier without the build up of sugar decay from simple carb foods. So let healthy smiles shine with your healthy body.