Low-carbohydrate diets are viewed as an alternative to the more traditional low-fat diets. Perhaps the most widely known of these plans is the Atkins Diet, developed by a cardiologist, Dr. Robert Atkins. They typically involve the consuming of foods that are high in protein, such as red meat, fish and poultry.
Initial Weight Loss
A low-carb diet can lead to weight loss occurring more quickly than with a low-fat diet, although the difference in weight loss tends to even out in the long term. Also, weight loss can occur without following a strict count of the number of calories consumed.
Appetite Control
Better appetite control can also occur with a low-carb diet, since there is less fluctuation of blood glucose levels. This can lead to a reduction in hunger and food cravings because of the sensation of being full. There can also be a tendency to stick to a low-carb diet plan longer and not feel as much of a need to cheat, according to Vitacost.com
Increased Metabolism
Due to the body's increased ability to burn fat on a low-carb diet, the belief is that this leads to an increased metabolism and more rapid weight loss. Also, more of the lost weight will be in fat as opposed to the muscle mass loss that can occur with low-fat diets.
Lowered Cholesterol
Low-carb diets can result in lower levels of "bad" cholesterol (LDL) in the blood, which can lower the risk of heart disease. It is important that the amount of fat consumed not be excessive, as this could actually raise the LDL level.
Diabetes
A low-carb diet can limit or even reverse the effects of Type 2 diabetes in the short term, according to the SUNY Downstate Medical Center. This is the result of better control of the levels of insulin in the blood. There is no conclusive evidence as to the long-term impact on the diabetic.
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